SHONTO, Ariz. — The Navajo Nation and the Navajo Nation Hospitality Enterprise (NNHE) formalized a landmark business site lease on April 27, 2026, supporting the operation and long-term management of a 17-million-dollar hotel with 83-rooms in the Shonto Chapter area. This marks a major step forward in strengthening Navajo-owned tourism and economic development.
“This project reflects our commitment to building a stronger, self-sustaining Navajo economy,” said President Nygren. “By investing in Navajo-owned enterprises and expanding our tourism footprint, we are creating jobs, generating revenue, and keeping opportunity within our communities.”
The agreement establishes a 25-year lease, with two additional 25-year renewal options, for a 5.91-acre site located at the junction of U.S. Highway 160 and State Route 98. The project includes a La Quinta Inn & Suites featuring modern amenities such as a fitness center, outdoor pool, breakfast services, and retail and tourism-related offerings.
President Buu Nygren joined Division of Economic Development leadership, NNHE executives and board members, as well as Shonto Chapter officials and Delegate Rickie Nez, Delegate Herman Daniels and Delegate Otto Tso to commemorate the signing.
I want to thank President Nez and his administration for helping kick off this project and laying the foundation to move it forward. I also want to thank everyone in the current administration for helping get this project across the finish line. Projects like this do not happen because of one person, they happen because many leaders, employees, and community members worked on it, prayed for it, and stayed united behind the vision. Thank you to everyone who played a role over the years to make this possible. It’s going to be amazing to see this project finally open this month.
The development is expected to serve as a key gateway for visitors traveling through the region while driving local economic activity. NNHE will oversee operations, contributing to long-term diversification of the Navajo Nation economy through hospitality and tourism.
The lease includes a structured rental model beginning with a $1 development year, followed by incremental annual payments starting at $55,000, and incorporates a 25 percent share of net income beginning in Year 4—ensuring sustained revenue generation for the Navajo Nation.
Community interest has already proven strong, with over 200 applicants competing for 32 anticipated positions, highlighting the demand for local employment opportunities.
Funding for the project includes Project Development Funds, the Permanent Trust Fund, Abandoned Mine Lands (AML), and ARPA allocations.
This milestone spotlights a broader vision to expand Navajo-owned infrastructure along key transportation corridors while empowering local communities through job creation and economic opportunity.
