UNIVERSITY BEACH BRINGS FIRST LUXURY HOTEL TO TUSCALOOSA MARKET WITH MARRIOTT AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION

University Beach, the mixed-use luxury resort, residential and entertainment

destination currently under construction in Northport, has selected Marriott Autograph Collection as its hotel partner. Featuring 144 curated rooms and suites with elevated finishes, the hotel marks the area’s first luxury property and will serve as the centerpiece for the destination beach resort.

Aimbridge Hospitality, one of the world's leading global hospitality management

companies and the world’s largest third-party hotel operator, will oversee operations at the resort hotel. University Beach selected Aimbridge for their award-winning experience in turnkey management of high-end accommodations, culinary experiences and resort amenities.

“We’re thrilled to be the first to bring unprecedented accommodations and service to Northport and the greater Tuscaloosa market. Partnering with Marriott and Aimbridge Hospitality ensures all visitors, whether traveling from afar or right around the corner, experience unparalleled hospitality and coastal-style grandeur in the heart of Alabama,” says University Beach developer Kent Donahue.

Globally recognized for their distinctive charm and opulence, Marriott Autograph Collection hotels are carefully crafted to deliver rich moments that leave a lasting imprint. The University Beach hotel will offer luxury stays and exclusive amenities including:

• 132 contemporary king and queen rooms

• 12 luxury waterfront suites with private balconies

• Private beach access with upscale cabanas

• Resort-style infinity pool

• State-of-the-art fitness center

• Full-service concierge and room service

• Beach bar, poolside bar, signature restaurant bar and coffee/juice refreshment bar

• Versatile venue space for weddings, banquets, conferences and corporate events

Northport-based Harrison Construction has been selected to build the hotel and beach club. Construction on the hotel will begin in the first quarter of 2026 with an anticipated opening date in fall 2027.

The University Beach development is projected to add nearly 700 direct new jobs in Northport, according to an independent study conducted by Hotel & Leisure Advisors (HLA). The study also projects it will generate over $250 million in city tax revenues, $210 million in county tax revenues and over $530 million in state tax revenues over the next 30 years.

To learn more, please visit UniversityBeach.com.

ABOUT UNIVERSITY BEACH

University Beach is a mixed-use destination centered around 10 acres of pristine turquoise water and white sandy beaches. The resort will offer luxury resort-style hospitality, residences, entertainment, retail, activities and unique restaurants. Located in Northport, Alabama just minutes from University of Alabama, the 77-acre destination will feature waterfront dining, an interactive waterpark, open-air live music and entertainment venue, a luxury hotel and retail boardwalk with unique shopping and dining options. Experience coastal charm in the heart of Alabama at University Beach. Learn more at UniversityBeach.com.

ABOUT MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 9,500 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 144 countries and territories. Marriott operates, franchises, and licenses hotel, residential, timeshare, and other lodging properties all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel platform. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram.

ABOUT AIMBRIDGE HOSPITALITY

Aimbridge Hospitality is a leading, global hospitality company offering best-in-class hotel management services across a broad spectrum of franchised branded full service, select service, luxury hotels, destination resorts, convention centers, and lifestyle hotels. Aimbridge's premium portfolio represents approximately 1,500 properties in 49 states and 20 countries, inclusive of pipeline. As the world's largest third-party operator, Aimbridge is dedicated to its mission to leverage its scale to add value for owners and opportunities for associates. Aimbridge Hospitality’s global headquarters is based in Plano, Texas, with additional corporate offices in Atlanta, Calgary, Fargo, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C.

Media contact: Senior Public Relations Manager Robin Keller, Zehnder Communications, (225) 278-4413, RobinK@WeAreZ.com