Two big renovation projects at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center, in downtown Milwaukee, and Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, in Lake Geneva,  will begin immediately, owner Marcus Corp. said today.

A substantial portion of the renovations will be finished by early summer. When the renovations are completed, the total cost for both projects is expected to be around $30 million.

Milwaukee-based Marcus is moving forward on the projects despite the travel industry’s downturn, said Bill Otto, president of Marcus Hotels and Resorts, the company’s hotel division. 

“By beginning these renovations immediately, we will be able to provide a significantly enhanced experience for our guests in time for our upcoming peak summer season,” said Otto, in a statement.

Renovations at the 730-room Hilton will begin with lobby and guest room remodeling, including new high definition LCD televisions, bedding, carpeting, furniture and art work. The project’s next phase, expected to begin later this year, will include upgrades to the meeting rooms, restaurants, gift shop and exterior elements.

At the 355-room Grand Geneva, renovations on the spa and outdoor pool are under way. The guest rooms will receive new carpeting, drapery, bedding, and bathroom fixtures, flooring and lighting.

Other renovations planned at the Grand Geneva include new art work, lighting and additional furniture upgrades, and reconfigured bathrooms in the hotel’s 20 Newport Suites and Newport Executive Suites.