News Summary
Gadsden’s Mayor Craig Ford has proposed a $100 million bond to support key projects in the city, backed by a strong financial audit. The bond aligns with the Gadsden RISE Plan, aimed at improving community infrastructure and attracting businesses. Central to the plan is the Gadsden Athletic Center, projected to create 2,400 jobs and generate an economic impact of $190 million. This initiative promises no new taxes or fees for residents, ensuring financial stability while enhancing the quality of life in Gadsden.
Gadsden – Mayor Craig Ford has put forth a proposal for an over $100 million bond intended to support significant projects and initiatives within the city. This proposal aligns with recent findings from a yearly audit report revealing that Gadsden is currently in its strongest financial position in the last decade, reflecting a positive trend in both revenues and expenditures. Under the new bond, there is no intention to implement new taxes or fees for financing, promising a solution that minimizes financial burden on the citizens.
This proposed bond supports the Gadsden RISE Plan, an acronym for Reimagine, Invest, Strategic Planning, and Economic Development. The RISE Plan serves as a framework for various initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Gadsden, which is deemed essential for attracting new businesses and fostering economic growth.
Gadsden Athletic Center as the Centerpiece
At the heart of the RISE Plan is the proposed Gadsden Athletic Center (GAC). This state-of-the-art facility is expected to include an aquatic center, 16 volleyball courts, 10 pickleball courts, 8 basketball courts, and 4 baseball/softball fields, along with a 1.25-mile walking track designed to promote community engagement and wellness.
An economic impact study commissioned to gauge the potential benefits of the GAC indicates that the facility could generate approximately 2,400 jobs and yield an estimated economic impact of at least $190 million. Construction for the GAC is slated to commence in early 2026, replacing the current West Meighan Sports Complex.
Additional Projects Under the RISE Plan
The RISE Plan does not solely hinge on the GAC; it also encompasses various other projects identified in the GROW Gadsden master plan. These initiatives include developments along the riverfront and investments in arts and cultural projects, further demonstrating the city’s commitment to enhance community life and attract visitors.
Financial Considerations and Impact
Mayor Ford highlighted that Gadsden’s revenues have notably increased by double digits over the past three years, while expenses have been effectively managed and reduced. The city has successfully paid off three previous bonds without raising taxes or fees, which bodes well for residents as they look to the future.
In terms of funding, the proposed bond will be financed through dedicated revenue funds. This strategy will shield the city’s general fund and operational expenses from adverse effects, ensuring financial stability as major projects move forward. The financial groundwork laid by city employees over recent years has been pivotal in establishing this solid fiscal footing.
Community Benefits and Future Growth
The Gadsden community stands to benefit significantly from the proposed bond and the accompanying RISE Plan. By focusing on developments that enhance community health, recreational opportunities, and cultural enrichment, the plan aims to create a more vibrant city environment. Mayor Ford has emphasized that improving the quality of life for residents is not just a priority but a necessary strategy for driving business investments and fostering economic resilience.
In summary, Gadsden’s proposal for a $100 million bond outlines several ambitious projects designed to elevate the city’s infrastructure and community services, supported by a strong fiscal report. As the city moves forward in planning and development, residents can anticipate beneficial changes that promise to enhance both economic prospects and overall quality of life.
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
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LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER The LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELosAngeles.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, and beyond, specializing in "news you can use" with coverage of 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 from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates, while delivering top reporting on high-value events like the Academy Awards, LA Auto Show, and Los Angeles Marathon, extending coverage to key organizations such as the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, plus leading businesses in entertainment and technology like Warner Bros. and SpaceX, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREAnaheim.com , HERECostaMesa.com , HEREHuntingtonBeach.com , and HERESantaAna.com , providing comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape. HERE Anaheim HERE Beverly Hills HERE Coronado HERE Costa Mesa HERE Hollywood HERE Huntington Beach HERE Long Beach HERE Los Angeles HERE Mission Viejo HERE San Diego HERE Santa Ana
