Among an array of guest amenities such as flat-screen HDTV monitors and IHG's trademark SimplySmart bedding, the new hotel will sport new signage that is part of the company's $1-billion effort to relaunch the Holiday Inn brand. The program was established two years ago to create a more contemporary value-brand image, part of the drive to increase quality and consistency across the 3,200-hotel global portfolio.

"The Holiday Inn Express portfolio continues to expand in markets like Nashville, providing our guests with an enhanced stay experience at a great value," says John Merkin, senior vice president of brand management for Holiday Inn's Americas operations in Atlanta. He notes that Holiday Inn Express has more than 1,800 properties worldwide with at least 700 in the pipeline.

Pinnacle-McGavock Pike will operate the new Holiday Inn Express Nashville-Opryland under a license agreement with IHG. Gerald Russell is the hotel's general manager.