News Summary
Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford has proposed a $100 million bond to finance major community projects following a strong financial performance in the city. The bond aligns with the Gadsden RISE plan, focusing on enhancing quality of life and attracting businesses. The centerpiece is the Gadsden Athletic Center, expected to create 2,400 jobs and have a $190 million economic impact. Funding will come from dedicated revenue funds, ensuring financial prudence while pursuing vital projects.
Gadsden Proposed Bond to Fund Major Projects
Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford has proposed a significant bond exceeding $100 million to finance a series of vital projects within the city. The proposal emerges after a recent yearly audit report indicated that Gadsden is currently experiencing its strongest financial position in the last decade, setting the stage for ambitious community development initiatives.
Mayor Ford highlighted the city’s financial growth, reporting double-digit increases in revenues over the past three years while effectively reducing expenses. The favorable financial performance allowed city leaders to consider such a groundbreaking investment in the community without the need for introducing new taxes or fees to support the bond’s financing. Notably, three previous bonds have already been paid off, ensuring Gadsden can responsibly manage this new financial undertaking.
Overview of the RISE Plan
The proposed bond aligns with the Gadsden RISE plan, an acronym that stands for Reimagine, Invest, Strategic Planning, and Economic Development. This strategic framework focuses on advancing Gadsden’s growth through key projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life and attracting businesses to the area.
Gadsden Athletic Center as Central Project
The centerpiece of the RISE plan is the Gadsden Athletic Center (GAC), designed to become a state-of-the-art facility for both residents and visitors. Amenities at the GAC will include an aquatic center, 16 volleyball courts, 10 pickleball courts, 8 basketball courts, and 4 baseball/softball fields. Additionally, the facility will feature a 1.25-mile walking track for community use.
A preliminary study conducted by the Sports Facilities Companies based in Tampa, Florida, projects that the GAC will generate approximately 2,400 jobs and create an economic impact of at least $190 million for the Gadsden area. This new facility is intended to replace the existing West Meighan Sports Complex, with construction expected to commence in early 2026.
Incorporating Broader Development Plans
The RISE plan encompasses various projects highlighted in the GROW Gadsden master plan, which includes riverfront development and initiatives targeting arts and culture. The aim is to create a vibrant, engaging environment that fosters community involvement, boosts local tourism, and enhances overall quality of life for residents.
Mayor Ford emphasized the importance of these enhancements as crucial for attracting new businesses and investments to Gadsden. By focusing on quality of life improvements, city leaders hope to create an appealing atmosphere for both existing residents and prospective newcomers.
Funding and Financial Management
Funding for the proposed bond will be sourced from dedicated revenue funds, ensuring the city’s general fund and operations remain unaffected. The strategic allocation of funds reflects a commitment to financial prudence while pursuing vital projects that will allow Gadsden to grow economically and socially.
In light of the city’s robust financial health and the achievements of the city employees, the Mayor expressed gratitude for their efforts in contributing to Gadsden’s advancement. The combination of a well-structured plan, sound financial management, and community-focused initiatives positions Gadsden for a promising future.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WBRC News
- ABC 33/40 News
- Gadsden Times
- WTXL News
- Post and Courier
- Wikipedia: Gadsden, Alabama
- Google Search: Gadsden RISE plan
- Google Scholar: Gadsden economic development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gadsden
- Google News: Gadsden community projects
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
