Birmingham Approves $15 Million Family Fun Center in West End
In a significant move for the Birmingham community, the City of Birmingham has recently approved an ordinance that paves the way for a new family fun center in the West End area. The ordinance authorizes the Public Athletic, Cultural and Entertainment Facilities (PACE) board to act as the fiscal agent for this $15 million project, which promises to bring a variety of recreational activities for families.
With this approval, a groundbreaking ceremony is anticipated within the next 30 days. This marks an important milestone for the local community as residents look forward to having a safe and entertaining space for family outings. Mayor Randall L. Woodfin expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This is a great day for the families of Birmingham. No longer will residents have to look outside our city for a safe, fun place to enjoy with loved ones.”
A New Hub for Family Activities
The proposed family fun center will span an impressive 20,000 square feet and is set to feature a variety of attractions, including:
- Skating rink
- Jump park
- E-sports center
- Bowling alley
- Food court
This wide range of options aims to cater to families and individuals looking for activities to engage in throughout the year. Community members expressed their anticipation for the center, as it represents not only entertainment but also a source of potential revenue for the area.
Community Impact and Economic Growth
Cornell Wesley, the Director of Innovation and Economic Opportunity, shared his thoughts on the project. He noted two key feelings associated with this development: relief and excitement. “Relief in that it has been two years in the making. And, excitement for the community and Birminghamians at large and what this will yield,” Wesley said. He elaborated that the center will benefit not only the West End neighborhood but the entire city as well.
The PACE board, which was established to serve as a funding unit for city initiatives, will oversee the project’s development. The board is experienced in managing construction projects, having previously collaborated with the city on the Regions Ball Park and Rickwood Field. As Wesley emphasized, “We will walk hand in glove with our PACE board to identify our general contractor.”
Timelines and Expectations
Once the general contractor is selected, officials anticipate a construction timeline of 18 months before the center is fully operational. This process will involve hiring contracts and choosing vendors, all managed under the PACE board’s leadership.
Residents hopeful about the new family fun center are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming developments. For real-time updates from the City of Birmingham, community members can follow the city’s official social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn. Additionally, they can text “BHAMREADY” to 888-777 for important notifications.
As the community awaits the official groundbreaking, excitement and anticipation mingle in the air. The approval of the family fun center signals a promising future for family-centered recreation in Birmingham, creating a new hotspot for entertainment and engagement for generations to come.
