Villa Roma Resort's $52M Revival to Transform Catskills Tourism and Jobs
A historic resort in Upstate New York is set for a major transformation. FAY Investment Group has launched Villa Roma EB-5, a project aimed at revitalising the long-standing Villa Roma Resort. The redevelopment will bring new facilities, jobs, and investment to the Catskills region through a structured EB-5 funding model. The Villa Roma Resort, operating for over 50 years, sits on a 434-acre campus in a Rural Targeted Employment Area (TEA). The redevelopment plan includes renovating 139 hotel rooms and 232 serviced apartments, building a new conference centre, and upgrading existing facilities. A 52.1-million-dollar Property Improvement Programme will roll out over roughly 25 months, all while keeping the resort open for guests.
The project is expected to create around 777 jobs, surpassing the 640 required for the 51.2-million-dollar EB-5 capital raise. FAY Investment Group structured the opportunity as preferred equity, with a five-year investment horizon and a possible one-year extension. By qualifying as a Rural TEA project, it benefits from lower investment thresholds and faster processing times. FAY’s broader approach focuses on reviving underused hospitality properties through strategic capital and hands-on management. Institutional partners in construction, design, advisory, and fund administration are supporting the project. The goal is to enhance the resort’s mix of lodging, dining, events, and recreational offerings while preserving its established operations.
The redevelopment will modernise the resort’s infrastructure and expand its capacity. With job creation exceeding initial targets, the project aims to boost local employment and economic activity. The structured EB-5 model ensures alignment between investor interests and the long-term revitalisation of the historic property.
