This is an update of a story posted at 2:08 p.m. Wednesday
WEST SPRINGFIELD - A fire Wednesday afternoon appeared to cause significant damage to the exterior of the Courtyard by Marriott hotel on Riverdale Street.
Firefighters contained the fire, reported at around 1:45 p.m., and it was not clear how extensive the interior damage was. Firefighters tore away an extended portion of the exterior on the south side of the building along the second and third floors. Rooms on the second floor appeared to have sustained interior damage although how much was not clear.
Heavy smoke and flame were pouring out of the second floor when firefighters first arrived.
The hotel, at 855 Riverdale St, directly across from Showcase Cinemas, is a new facility. It has been open for less than a year.
Several employees huddled in the parking lot while firefighters worked on the building. Employees said they were not allowed by their employer to talk to the press.
It is not clear how many guests were staying at the hotel, or if they will be allowed back inside.
West Springfield police closed Riverdale Street, or Route 5, at Elm Street for northbound traffic to allow fire vehicles to gain access to the fire scene.