The city of Gadsden, Alabama, is unveiling the next step to the city’s plan to reinvigorate spaces, rejuvenate city-owned property and advance local development projects — an estimated $100 million bond.
After paying off three previous bonds, the city is taking its GROW Gadsden multi-year plan a step farther with a new $100 million initiative: Reimagine, Invest, Strategic planning and Economic development (RISE).
With funding coming from dedicated revenue bonds, city officials expect the planned project in the RISE plan to bring $190 million in economic impact, including 2,400 new jobs.
The centerpiece of the development along the Coosa River is the construction of the Gadsden Athletic Center (GAC), which includes an aquatics center, 16 volleyball courts, 10 pickleball courts, eight basketball courts, four baseball/softball fields and a 1.25-mile walking track. It replaces the West Meighan Sports Complex.
Additional projects include riverfront development, park upgrades, and arts and culture initiatives, all drawn from the city’s long-term GROW Gadsden master plan.
The 10-to-20-year plan allows for not only the RISE bond investments, but also for further mixed-use real estate investments along the waterfront and downtown. Private businesses have already invested at least $20 million and begun marketing luxury condos in the area, anticipating a similar outcome to his venture in Guntersville.
Construction on the GAC is expected to begin early 2026 and be operational in 2028 or 2029. The Coosa Harbor project should also break ground in 2026 with a two-to-three-year buildout.
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