Byline: Boaz Herzog
Feb. 22--Oregon's hotels are turning on the vacancy sign more frequently these days.
The average occupancy rates last year for state lodging properties dropped to levels not seen in several years, reflecting a sagging economy and a dearth of guests after Sept. 11. Average room rates also fell as hotel operators slashed prices to attract guests.
The trends affected properties small and large, from downtown streets to suburban enclaves, according to a report by Wolfgang Rood Hospitality Consulting of Bellevue, Wash., and San Francisco-based PKF Consulting. The firms surveyed 70 Oregon properties that encompass 11,034 rooms.
Reports released ...