Monday, December 17, 2007
Expo Center could spark growth
On the heels of Silver Companies’ Nov. 20 announcement it would build a vacation destination in Opelika called Celebrate Alabama, the city council tonight will discuss a development and lease agreement for Opelika’s Expo Center.
December 4, 2007
On the heels of Silver Companies’ Nov. 20 announcement it would build a vacation destination in Opelika called Celebrate Alabama, the city council tonight will discuss a development and lease agreement for Opelika’s Expo Center.
The center would be built along Interstate 85 as part of the Celebrate project that will stretch from Exits 64 to 66.
Celebrate Alabama, dubbed a major retail, entertainment and attractions destination, is expected to span more than 535 acres and when completed will create approximately 5,000 jobs with a capital investment approaching $1 billion, according to Silver Companies and city officials.
Silver Companies CEO Larry D. Silver says once the expo center is complete, it will serve as a catalyst for more industry to locate in the area.
“Regional and statewide conventions will be held in Opelika,“ Silver said.
He said the expo center will draw musicians, artisans, sporting events, festivals, trade shows and consumer shows geared toward fishermen, hunters and cooking enthusiasts, just to name a few.
Silver Companies is expected to break ground in Opelika during the first quarter of 2008 with grading of pasture land taking about 18 months. The project is expected to take about eight to 10 years to complete with the first phase tentatively done in 24 months. The council will entertain first-reading of an ordinance that outlines a development and lease agreement for Opelika’s Expo Center.
In other council news, the council at its 6:30 p.m. work session will discuss rezoning of 138 acres along Interstate Road extension and Frederick Road, as well as capital outlay amendment for fiscal year 2007.
During the council’s regular 7 p.m. meeting, the following will be discussed:
- Check presentation by Bailey-Harris for Miracle Field.
- Bids for two 2007 unmarked police package vehicles, plus one marked police package vehicle, two 2008 pickup trucks for parks and recreation and planning, rental of two copy machines for light and power, two for parks and recreation and one for administration.
- Resolution to authorize demolitions at 615 Auburn Place, 505 McClure Ave. and 3409 Chilton Ave.
- Ordinance to amend zoning of Pepperell Manufacturing Co. up for second-reading.
- Ordinance to amend Chapter 14 of city code for business license schedule up for second-reading. - Ordinances to amend zoning of 19 parcels to become a retail-entertainment district and zoning of Lawler Business Park, both up for first-reading.