EPHRATA — Ephrata residents can look forward to additional hospitality options as a new Wyndham Microtel is set to break ground next year. The owners expect to open the doors by June or July 2026.  

The hotel, which will feature 81 rooms — including 16 suites — will occupy a footprint of nearly 36,000 square feet, making it about 25% larger than the existing Holiday Inn Express in George, spokesperson Dustin Canfield said.  

The project is spearheaded by a family-run investment group that includes local entrepreneur Dave Canfield and his family and his son-in-law, Caleb McNamara, and his family.  

"We’ve always wanted to explore the commercial development world, and the feasibility study for Ephrata showed that this area has a great location for another hotel,” Dustin Canfield said. “Caleb, who has overseen several hotel developments on the West Coast, is excited about the project's progress.” 

Canfield said McNamara has made a name for himself with Wyndham and the greater hotel community on the West Coast due to his attention to detail, meeting deadlines and staying within the allocated budgets. McNamara has been involved in helping build multiple hotels on the West Coast, Canfield said.  

Construction for the Microtel is already underway, with the team striving to meet timelines. Canfield said they are currently ahead of schedule. Sourcing materials locally has been instrumental in maintaining their construction schedule, he said.  

“Working with local vendors has made it easier to stay on target and avoid delays that are often seen in larger projects,” he said. 

The architectural design of the hotel follows Wyndham's franchise standards, providing limited creative options. However, Canfield noted that they have made some enhancements.  

“While we are guided by Wyndham's specifications, we were able to expand certain areas, like the bar and reception space. We wanted to create an inviting environment,” he said.  

The Microtel will incorporate a lounge-style dining service featuring a selection of burgers, sandwiches, salads and a variety of drinks. 

Although specific details about the hotel’s amenities are still being finalized, Canfield indicated that guests can expect complimentary Wi-Fi, a fitness center and potentially a small breakfast area. There will not be a pool.  

The economic impact of this new hotel is expected to be significant, Canfield said, offering around 30 to 35 new job opportunities.  

“We anticipate that it will benefit the local workforce both during and after the construction phase,” he said.   

Canfield believes that the Microtel will improve Ephrata's hospitality landscape, especially given its location at the intersection of multiple travel routes.  

"Ephrata is a central hub, especially with traffic during the Gorge (Amphitheatre) season and various sporting events. We’re optimistic that our hotel will not only serve tourists but also local businesses and traveling professionals who frequently require accommodations," he said. 

A grand opening celebration is also expected to take place, with plans being developed in conjunction with Wyndham corporate officials. While specific promotional details are still being worked out, Canfield said he wants to make the opening a community event that everyone can enjoy. 

“We are thrilled to be part of the growing business community in Ephrata," he said. "Every day we see the transformation during construction, and it’s exciting to know that we are helping to shape the future of hospitality in this area.” 

As construction progresses, Canfield describes it as a rewarding journey.

“To see it come together after dreaming about it for years is just awesome,” he said.  

    The new Wyndham Microtel in Ephrata will feature 81 rooms with 16 suites.
  

    The Canfield and McNamara families are in charge of the construction and management of the new Wyndham Microtel in Ephrata.