[buzzg]

I don't see why you can't use the existing entrance and just put a secondary entrance on the side for accessibility and loading from the parking lot. Many hotels here have two entrances to the lobby, if not more.

Elevator proximity to entrance is pretty irrelevant, it's very common for elevators not to be right by the front desk.

And who knows, maybe they will keep the main entrance open and just add this second one – hopefully at least the new door faces the street and not the lot.

Side note – It's going to be hilarious to me when the lot Donald eventually gets developed and the Best Western's main entrance is literally in a dingy back lane. Goes to show why you should always follow the (un)written urban design rules.