IHG Army Hotels Advances Modernization of On-Post Lodging Across U.S. Army Installations
IHG Army Hotels, launched in 2009 under the Privatization of Army Lodging (PAL) programme, continues to strengthen on-post accommodation for service members, their families, and guests. Today, the portfolio includes more than 13,000 rooms across 40 U.S. Army installations, delivering consistent hospitality standards through familiar IHG Hotels & Resorts brands, including Holiday Inn Express and Candlewood Suites.
As guest expectations and operational requirements evolve, IHG Army Hotels properties undergo regular upgrades. In 2025, IHG Army Hotels, in partnership with owner and developer Centinel, began the latest phase of renovations across several key locations. These upgrades form part of Centinel’s ongoing role in advancing the PAL programme and modernising Army lodging nationwide.
Chuck Sourbeer, Vice President of Operations for IHG Army Hotels, said the renovations reflect a continued focus on improving the quality, functionality, and sustainability of lodging for service members and their families, supported by long-standing collaboration with Centinel.
Fort Polk, Louisiana
Holiday Inn Express Magnolia House & Cypress Inn
Located at Fort Polk (formerly Fort Johnson), Magnolia House and Cypress Inn were the first branded IHG Army Hotels properties and served as an early model for Army lodging privatisation. In 2025, the hotels completed a multimillion-dollar renovation, including interior and exterior upgrades.
The project introduced updated room layouts to better support extended training stays and permanent change-of-station transitions. Room capacity was increased to 98, along with improvements to comfort, usability, and long-stay functionality.
Matthew Garrett, Executive Vice President at Centinel, noted that the Fort Polk project reflects the PAL programme’s long-term approach to continuous improvement rather than a one-time investment.
Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri
Holiday Inn Express Morelli Heights
At Fort Leonard Wood, the former Foster Lodge has been rebranded as Holiday Inn Express Morelli Heights. Renovation works included upgrades to 66 guest rooms, each fitted with kitchenettes to accommodate both short and extended stays.
Additional improvements covered shared areas such as the lobby and a covered outdoor patio, as well as exterior enhancements including LED lighting and landscaping. Interior updates included new furniture, fixtures, flooring, HVAC systems, a renovated laundry facility, new elevators, a fitness centre, and a Suite Shop.
All stays at IHG Army Hotels continue to earn IHG One Rewards points, allowing guests to redeem rewards across IHG’s wider global portfolio.
White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico
Organ Mountains Inn – Historia Collection
The Organ Mountains Inn at White Sands Missile Range recently joined the IHG Army Hotels Historia Collection, which recognises properties with historical significance. Originally built in 1951, the 58-room inn underwent a comprehensive renovation that balanced heritage preservation with modern operational standards.
Sustainability measures were integrated throughout the project, including updated climate systems, motion-sensing LED lighting, and Energy Star-rated appliances. The renovation also delivered a redesigned lobby, expanded fitness and dining facilities, and updated guest room furnishings, while retaining the property’s historic character.
The completed projects at Fort Polk, Fort Leonard Wood, and White Sands Missile Range provide a framework for future upgrades across the portfolio. Additional renovations are planned to begin or continue into 2026, alongside the opening of a newly constructed Candlewood Suites at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
Through continued collaboration with Centinel and alignment with evolving IHG brand standards, IHG Army Hotels remains focused on delivering consistent, functional, and well-maintained lodging experiences that support the needs of today’s service members and their families.
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