Feb. 11, 2013--Construction on a new Tucson hotel is set to begin within weeks on River Road near La Cholla.

Candlewood Suites, a four-story, 89-room hotel, will cater to business travelers on extended visits to Tucson.

All rooms feature kitchens with full-size appliances in suites of one to two bedrooms, said Jason Tharp, vice president of operations for the hotel's management company, Narven Enterprises Inc.

A $6 million commercial permit for the hotel's construction was issued last month.

"The goal is to open by the end of the year," Tharp said. "Guests typically stay anywhere from seven days to a month."

Candlewood does not have a restaurant on its premises, but "Candlewood Cupboard," stocked with sandwiches, drinks and sundries, is open 24 hours.

The facility will have a laundry room that is free to guests and a heated pool and hot tub, Tharp said.

There will also be a "lending locker" with items such as basketballs and blenders that guests can borrow. The library will be stocked with movies and books.

The currently vacant land at 1995 W. River Road will soon have signs identifying the future hotel and contact information.

"Tucson is a beautiful place and we like that market a lot," Tharp said. "We did a lot of research and found there was a real need for a hotel in that area."

Contact reporter Gabriela Rico at [email protected] or 57304232.

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