Texas billionaire Robert Rowling’s investment firm, TRT Holdings, has acquired more than $200 million in debt connected to the Greenbrier resort and other properties associated with West Virginia Senator Jim Justice’s business interests, according to an April 7 announcement.
The move gives TRT Holdings significant influence over the future of the historic Greenbrier resort, a National Historic Landmark located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. The acquisition comes as Carter Bank & Trust sold all outstanding loans related to Justice-affiliated entities last month. Public records and confirmation from the company identified TRT Holdings as the buyer.
Records show that White Sulphur Springs Holdings LLC, an entity linked to TRT and sharing its Dallas headquarters address, acquired the first-lien loan on the Greenbrier. The transaction was carried out by TRT’s real estate chief, establishing a direct connection between Rowling’s firm and the deal.
A spokesperson for TRT told CoStar that “the transaction is an investment,” adding that any future plans regarding control of the property will depend on its financial performance. The spokesperson did not specify whether there are intentions for a takeover.
With control of senior debt on the resort, TRT now holds leverage over possible outcomes for The Greenbrier. This could include restructuring or taking ownership if loan conditions change or deteriorate. Since acquiring Omni Hotels & Resorts in 1996, Rowling has expanded his hospitality portfolio significantly; adding The Greenbrier would be notable due to its size and historical significance.
Observers are watching closely as this development could impact both local tourism and broader trends within luxury hospitality.
