Anaheim, Calif.-R.D. Olson Construction has begun work on the first non-Disney hospitality complex to break ground within the Anaheim Resort Zone.

The Irvine-based construction company will provide the pre-construction, general contracting and design build services for the two-hotel resort. Construction costs will total $26 million for a seven-story 143-room extended-stay Staybridge Suites and nine-story 264-room Holiday Inn. The complex is situated on six acres of land at 1901 Manchester Ave. It will total 258,000 square feet.

The hotels will share a common outdoor resort-style amenities area consisting of a large swimming pool, sports courts, stamped concrete walkways and exclusive water features surrounded by towering palm trees. The Holiday Inn will host an Alamo Grill Restaurant.

"We’re proud to be a leader redeveloping the Anaheim Resort Zone and enhancing the environment of the area for tourists and residents alike," said Dennis Reyling, president, R.D. Olson Construction.

Lee & Sakahara Architects designed the hotels for their owners, Bass Hotels and Resorts of Britain. Both are expected to be complete in August 2001. Once open, they will serve as a shuttle depot for theme park visitors , and provide accessible lodging for Anaheim Convention Center guests and business travelers.

Irvine-based R.D. Olson Development is the developer of the $46 million resort.

"This project will be a good example for what Anaheim residents can expect in new developments within the Anaheim Resort Zone," said Reyling.