story condo-hotel if the city approves a $500 million expansion plan.

"The Beverly Hilton is a preeminent gateway to Beverly Hills," said owner Beny Alagem, who will present his proposal to a joint meeting of the City Council and Planning Commission on Tuesday. "It's time or a new image for our property."

Even if granted approval, construction would be three years away.

Two new three-story buildings on Wilshire Boulevard would house 96 guest rooms and shops. The overall count of rooms for rent would be reduced to 523 from 569 by razing the free-standing Oasis Court and Lanai guest room buildings.

Also Trader Vic's would be removed and 1,400 parking spaces would be constructed underground.

Alagem, one of the founders of Packard Bell Electronics, purchased the hotel from Merv Griffin in 2003 for about $130 million. He will request that his new project deviate from the city's three-story height.

In the condo-tower, the rooms could be rented to guests when the owners are away, a trend in the hotel industry. Prices have not been set, however some Beverly Hills units could fetch more than $3 million.

In December, Alagem announced plans for a $500 million condo and retail project next door at the Robinsons-May store site, which is set to close this Spring.
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