Governor Josh Shapiro attended a groundbreaking ceremony with Erie Mayor Daria S. Devlin, County Executive Christina Vogel, project leaders, investors, and community members to mark the historic renovation of the Renaissance Centre office building into the Trust Hotel, an independent boutique hotel.
One of the largest single, private development investments in downtown Erie’s history and targeted for completion in 2027, the Trust Hotel will feature 195 rooms, a restaurant, ballroom, lounge, gym, and more — aiming to boost tourism and strengthen the local economy.
“The Trust Hotel will breathe new life into a historic landmark and be a premier destination for visitors to the Great Lakes region. Investments like this one will revitalize downtown, create good-paying jobs, and keep Erie growing stronger for years to come,” said Governor Josh Shapiro.
The entire renovation is expected to cost approximately $60 million, and will receive support from the Commonwealth, the City of Erie, the Erie County Redevelopment Authority, and Erie Insurance. The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) also awarded the project $500,000 in Enterprise Zone Tax Credits.
“The transformation of this landmark represents exactly the kind of thoughtful investment that strengthens our downtown,” said Erie Mayor Daria S. Devlin. “This project honors Erie’s history while creating new opportunities for business, tourism, and connection. We’re excited to see this iconic building reimagined in a way that will serve residents and visitors for generations to come.”
Built in the early 1930s and located in downtown Erie at 1001 State Street, the 14-story building includes distinctive Art Deco and Renaissance Revival architecture and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Named with reference to the building’s original identity as the Erie Trust Company Building, the development of The Trust Hotel will prioritize the restoration of original architectural details that have been concealed or degraded over decades.
“The Trust Hotel is a reflection of Erie’s character, resilience, and charm. We’re honoring the history of this landmark while creating a destination that brings new energy, opportunity, and pride to downtown Erie,” said Christian Siembieda, Owner of The Trust Hotel. “This project is about preserving the past, investing in the future, and giving residents and visitors a place that captures the spirit, hospitality, and style of the city for generations to come.”
Upon its opening, the Trust Hotel is expected to boost local tourism in Erie – the city’s third largest industry which generates more than $1.2 billion in visitor spending annually and supports an average of 15,000 local jobs.
