An amendment has been proposed to North Bend’s zoning code to allow a hotel to be built next to Interstate 90’s Exit 31.

The lot at the corner of Ribary Way and Bendigo Boulevard South is currently zoned as Interchange Mixed Use, which prohibits hotels south of the freeway. The amendment proposed by George Wyrsch — the land’s principal owner — would remove the prohibition on hotels south of I-90.

North Bend needs a hotel, said Wyrsch, who owns several gas and service stations in the city.

The hotel could be a Hampton Inn and would cater to business travelers, tourists, and visiting family and friends, he said.

An earlier attempt to build a hotel on the same location was blocked in court by residents of Forester Woods, which overlooks the proposed hotel site.

Wyrsch said past concerns have been addressed.

There will be an open house on the proposed amendment on Tuesday, Aug. 10, at the North Bend Train Depot.

Before North Bend’s City Council can vote on the proposed change, it must be reviewed by at least two committees. The city’s Economic Development Committee will review it on Aug. 20, and there will be a public hearing held by the Planning Commission on Aug. 27. The City Council will likely vote on the amendment in October.