On-site COVID-19 testing among new methods Galt House Hotel using to bring groups back to city
The Galt House Hotel, part of AJS Hotels, is attempting to attract large groups back to the area with innovative ways to stay safe amid the pandemic.
Among employing methods to better clean hotel spaces and social distance, hotel officials also announced Thursday a unique way to promote safety: on-site COVID-19 testing.
"People still want to meet," AJS CEO Scott Shoenberger said. "Some want to meet, some want to still participate but they don't want to be actually physically present. So that flexibility really gives us an opportunity. All of the things that were necessary to make sure people felt comfortable."
"What I hope is that this is what ignites bringing back the 19 million visitors that were coming to Louisville annually," Louisville Tourism C.O.O Cleo Battle said.
Dave Berkemeier, Galt House Hotel onsite health solutions president, said Thursday they would be offering PCR, antibody and rapid tests which would be quick and effective. Berkemeier also said the team had developed an online portal for guests to use if they're getting tested.
"It's a way to track and monitor everybody, if they've taken their COVID test or not if that's going to be the condition of attending your conference or meeting," Berkemeier said.
Being one of the first hotels in the country to use such methods, Shoenberger said it makes Louisville more unique and believes it is the ticket to attract large groups back to the city.
"We want people to know that Louisville's forward-thinking, open for business and ready to take care of whatever your needs are," Shoenberger said.
Shoenberger said the hotel already has some large groups who are booked and will be using the on-site COVID-19 testing.