State of the City: Gardendale moves forward with two new developments – North Jefferson News

Gardendale is preparing for a number of new developments in the city that could mean a major financial windfall for the city. The construction of a UAB medical facility and freestanding emergency room is expected to begin off Mt. Olive Road (near Buffalo Wild Wings) this Fall.

The City Council recently approved work to begin preparing the roadway for the entrances and exits needed to support the facility. City leaders are also optimistic that the medical facility will draw other businesses to the immediate area, where there will still be more than 13 acres available.

The UAB construction process had been delayed by red tape in getting all of the approvals needed at a state level to begin the construction, but earlier this year, a UAB representative reaffirmed the commitment to the project at a State of the City luncheon with the Greater Gardendale Chamber of Commerce.

The city also recently committed to an $11 million development deal with GBT Realty to develop the area between Odum Road and Interstate 65 into an upscale destination retail center consisting of not less than 125,000 square feet of gross leasable area, according to the legal notice.

The developer spoke at a May council meeting and said they anticipate the final project will create approximately 250 new jobs and generate approximately $30 million in revenue for the city. The property includes retail space and out parcels for restaurants or independent stores. No potential tenants were formally announced, but the developers said they were currently in talks with several potential tenants.

In addition, this year saw the opening of the long-awaited Shrimp Basket as well as the remodeling of the shopping center at the corner of Fieldstown Road and Odum Road, which now houses Aspen Dental and Pet Supermarket.

Business development hasnt been the only project for the city, as it also opened a renovated green space area adjacent to the Kenneth Clemons Athletic Complex on Fieldstown Road. The complex has long housed the citys soccer fields and Splash Pad, but now also boasts an 18-hole disc golf course, Magnolia Links, and an extensive walking trail. Work is also underway to complete a dog park and skate park at the facility.

During the last year, the city also finally got the Raymond G. Doss Playground of Miracles completed and opened. The park, which is outfitted with playground equipment for children with special needs, backs up to the citys existing baseball park for those children and adults who have special needs.

The city also finally got its day in court on the battle to create a Gardendale City School System by breaking away from the Jefferson County Board of Education. The week-long trial resulted in a ruling from the federal judge that caused the city and the plaintiffs in the case to appeal. The case currently rests with the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta. Although city officials were disappointed by the decision and the further delay, they have expressed their desire to continue forward on the path to forming a city school system.

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State of the City: Gardendale moves forward with two new developments - North Jefferson News