The Ramada Inn of Albert Lea became the Americas Best Value Inn on Friday.

Ownership has not changed.

Tina Stripe, assistant general manager and sales director at the hotel, said the switch allows the facility to build on its reputation that’s been established and bring more hometown pride and overall value.

“We are all very excited about it,” Stripe said.

Reservations made through Ramada will carry over to Americas Best Value.

Along with the name change, several other changes and upgrades are also in the works for the near future, she said.

The event center at the facility has been changed from the Ramada Event Center to the Land Between the Lakes Event Center.

The restaurant, the Big Island Grille, will keep the same name, but will soon be getting a new menu to reflect the healthy principles of the Blue Zones.

In addition, there will be new drapery and bedding for half of the rooms at the hotel.

“We do have a lot of changes,” Stripe said. “We’re still here and going stronger than ever.”

Phil Johnson is still the owner of the facility and Carl Cochlin will remain the general manager.

Stripe said Americas Best Value Inn is the fastest-growing hotel chain in the country.

According to the chain’s Web site, Americas Best Value Inn is ranked as the 10th largest limited-service hotel chain in the country. It was named the fastest-growing hotel chain in America in 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006 by Lodging Hospitality Magazine. The chain spells its name without an apostrophe in “Americas.”

There are more than 800 locations throughout North America.