Gadsden expanding aquatic center plan to completely revamp West Meighan sports complex
Article and video produced by ABC 33/40
The City of Gadsden is looking at revamping the sports complex on West Meighan Boulevard. Initially, an aquatic center was proposed for the complex. Tuesday, the city council voted to enter into a contract with an architectural firm to evaluate the entire property.
Possibilities for the West Meighan Sports Complex could include the aquatic center, tennis courts, 12-16 pickleball courts, and indoor soccer facilities. The project budget could range from $50 million to $75 million. Mayor Craig Ford said this proposal aligns with the GROW Gadsden master plan.
"These complexes are what help revitalize areas and revitalize cities. When you talk about the Carver community, West Meighan, Alabama City, that whole area will be helped if we ever complete this, the council approves it, we like the plan, the people like it. We will have public hearings, etc," said Ford to council members.
Ford said the complex is currently in disarray.
The initial payment to the architectural firm, Chambless King Architects, is $1.2 million. The firm is tasked with looking at programming, venue feasibility, and schematic design for the complex.
"We wanted to do an economic impact study. We wanted to do visuals. We wanted to be able to take this to a convention for mixed retail where you've got the study completed. You know where you are drawing your people from and how much money you can generate for tournaments," explained Ford.
These elements of the plan should be available in six months.