I checked in this morning at 11:00 am and was given a room immediately. As a Gold, I was given an upgrade to a junior suite and access to the 8th floor lounge which I will be using for breakfast during my stay. They have already confirmed my late check-out for Monday. Staff at check-in very friendly and confirmed to me that I will earn Marriott points for my stay as per normal.

Condition of the room is fine. Perhaps not perfect.....but it is an old hotel. I have previously heard that the hotel will undergo a major renovation. I do not see evidence of that so far but perhaps that is coming.

Does anyone else know for certain if the property will receive a major renovation or only be "freshened up" (like new paint, new carpets, new linens, etc)?

FWIW, the front desk confirmed that the relationship with Marriott continues till end of 2013 but that a decision has not been taken as to what will happen after that. The hotel may extend the relationship with Marriott after that or end the relationship completely. Still under discussion. In any case, The Marriott sign on the front of the hotel has been removed. It now only says Plaza hotel.