Does new hotel = up & coming area?

[Nikki Closser]

Hi! While searching around for possible up-and-coming areas (smallish towns), does a new hotel opening in the area lead you to believe that the town is on the rise? I’m talking like a Hyatt  Place or Courtyard Marriott type hotel. I know there are obviously many more factors, just wondering if anyone has any insight about this. I figure big hotel chains are doing quite a bit of market research before deciding where to open! 

I should also add that, beside from a small college in town, the place is pretty desolate. Although, it does look like several of the older homes are being/have been completely gutted and redone.