The developer of a Hyatt Place hotel two blocks from the Music City Center says the project will open its doors before the end of 2013.

White Lodging, the Indiana-based company that will build the 13-story project at the corner of Third Avenue South and Molloy Street, closed on its $2 million purchase of the former Rock City Machine Co. property last week. It plans to start construction in May and complete work in December of next year. Previously, White Lodging officials had hoped for a fall opening.

The 13-story hotel, which has been designed by PFVS Architects, will contain 255 suits and include some meeting meeting space and a 175-space parking garage.

"The recent growth in downtown Nashville has been well planned and we believe this will serve as a catalyst for even greater growth in the coming years," said Deno Yiankes, president and CEO of White Lodging's investments and development division. "We are thrilled to be bringing a Hyatt Place hotel to the heart of downtown's expanding convention and entertainment district."