In 1993, the City of Gadsden unveiled an ambitious plan to redevelop the heart of the Central Business District. What transpired, as a result of the completion of that plan, has been nothing short of amazing. Six years after completion of a major streetscape project, private investment downtown is over $28 million and approximately 500 new jobs have been created. Another streetscape project is about to begin and is expected to stimulate more growth.

With the success of downtown well underway, the City of Gadsden has seized the opportunity to take revitalization efforts across the river to East Gadsden. A redevelopment plan was adopted, and the city became proactive in its efforts to create a gateway commercial district. Property was purchased for redevelopment as an entertainment district. The project will improve pedestrian accessibiity and orientation, improve connections to the river, and create a central commercial presence.

The subject property is located on the east end of the Broad Street Memorial Bridge, at the East Broad and Hood Avenue intersection which carries large volumes of traffic, being part of a major retail corridor that connects downtown Gadsden to US 431. A successful Ford dealership is located at the foot of the bridge, Coosa Town Center, a 300,000 square foot development anchored by a Super Wal-Mart, is 3 blocks to the north, and Gadsden State Community College is located less than 1 mile to the south. The City recently opened Twin Bridges Golf Club, an 18 hole, 257 acre championship course, 2 miles north of the property. Development of a park and boat launch, located in the heart of the project area is underway.

In addition, the City has committed $2.5 million for the renovation of Noccalula Falls, one of the most visited tourist attractions in the state, and is adding public space and expanded boardwalk along the Coosa River adjacent to a private mixed use riverfront development. Funds have also been allocated for construction of a convention center. All these efforts and more will further the City's goal of attracting more residents and tourists to the area.

Related Link: Request for Proposal - RiverEast Revitalization Project

For more information contact:

Cathy Back
Gadsden Commercial Development Authority
P. O. Box 8501
Gadsden
Alabama 35902
USA

Phone: (256)547-1530
Fax: (256)547-8690
Email: [email protected]
Web: http://www.gadsdsencommercial.com