The number of broadband-enabled hotels will swell from 14,300 properties to nearly 54,000 by 2009, according to In-Stat (www.in-stat.com), a forecaster of semiconductor and advanced communications equipment and services.

In-Stat says the expansion of broadband in limited-service hotels has progressed more rapidly than expected. Its forecast represents properties that offer broadband access in the guestroom, not only the business center and/or meeting and public spaces.

The growth will primarily affect two- and three-star properties in North America. It also will take place in Europe and Asia-Pacific, and those properties that already have it will extend it into new areas.

About two-thirds of the total connected properties are in North America, In-Stat says. In 2004, the total broadband market, including all travel accommodations worldwide, represented a penetration of 3.4 percent. In-Stat says penetration will rise to 11.4 percent in 2009.