Developer Reaches Deal on Pasadena Project

The developer of a delayed Pasadena hotel and retail project has switched hotel operators, naming Westin Hotels & Resorts to run a 268-room luxury property on Lake Avenue.

Officials for Los Angeles-based Champion Development Group said it switched to Westin after negotiations with the Renaissance hotel chain, which is owned by Marriott International Inc., failed to result in an agreement.

In addition to the hotel, Champion plans to build 40,000 square feet of shops at Lake and Cordova Street.

Champion, which unveiled its plans in 1998, had expected to complete the project this year, but found it harder than expected to fund construction. But the firm has obtained financing and plans to begin work in late September. Construction is expected to be completed in 18 months, Champion officials said.