The Steamboat Grand, one of the largest lodging properties and conference centers in Steamboat Springs, will be closed entirely for eight months starting April 1 to undergo infrastructure renovations.

According to an announcement from The Steamboat Grand, the 400,000-square-foot hotel complex is closing from April 1 to Nov. 30 “for long overdue infrastructure improvements including replacing all mainline water pipes, updating the fire alarm systems in all guests’ rooms and op panels, modernizing the elevators, upgrading room furniture and amenities.”

Officials say the large project has been on the radar for some time, and reservations and use of the complex during the construction timeframe were previously blocked off to restrict bookings.

“Prior to the closure, The Steamboat Grand HOA and Steamboat Ski Resort and Corp., which manages the property, decided on the full closure as the best approach to resolve the aging infrastructure,” officials said. “A complete closure of the hotel is the most effective, time-efficient way to proceed.”

Blair McNamara, vice president of lodging for Steamboat Ski & Resort Corp., said Thursday that The Steamboat Grand employs more than 120 workers. McNamara provides leadership, management and strategic direction for the resort’s hotel operations including employee, guest and owner relations associated with The Grand.

“We have been working directly with all impacted staff for the last few months to help during the transition time to either find new Steamboat Ski Resort-based jobs, file for unemployment or secure offsite jobs, with an expected return when the hotel reopens,” according to officials. “Our goal is to reopen bringing back as many team members as possible.”

One of the main improvements will be to replace the existing pipe infrastructure from the original build, as well as modernize the elevators in the building completed in 2000.

Reservations for the 328-room property will not be accepted for spring, summer or fall this year, and no conference rooms will be available.

“We appreciate our guests and homeowners’ patience and support as we undergo this massive project with the goal of opening in December for winter vacations,” The Grand states in its announcement.

Since the hotel complex will close three weeks before the ski resort’s scheduled extended closure date of April 21, potential Grand guests are encouraged to work with Steamboat Central Reservations to find other lodging.

Officials say the Grand parking garage will not be open for guests, staff or owners during construction, and the entire property including all guest rooms, restaurants, pool facilities, meeting rooms, parking garage and offices will be part of the construction zone.

Homeowners and guests will still be able to utilize the Grand parking garage across the street with owners issued a parking code each month for the vehicle registered on file.