News Summary
The Vestavia Hills City Council has approved over $30 million for new athletic facilities and infrastructure improvements. This ambitious plan includes developments at the Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex and Liberty Park, with construction expected to roll out over the next few years. Key projects include expanding fire stations, installing pool heaters, and building a satellite library, all aimed at enhancing safety and recreational facilities in the community.
Vestavia Hills Approves Over $30 Million for New Athletic and Infrastructure Projects
The Vestavia Hills City Council has approved a comprehensive plan to invest more than $30 million into new athletic facilities and infrastructure improvements, primarily centered around the Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex and Liberty Park. These projects are scheduled to unfold over the next two to three years, enhancing the city’s recreational, safety, and public service capabilities.
Major Construction Management Contract Awarded
The city council authorized the hiring of Doster Construction as the construction manager for the ambitious project portfolio at Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex. From a competitive bidding process involving six companies, Doster Construction was selected and will be responsible for overseeing the various construction activities. They will receive approximately 1.75% of the total project cost, estimated at $535,000. Additionally, during the pre-construction phase, Doster will be paid a minimum of $15,512 monthly, along with billing rates for supervisory personnel.
Key Projects and Timeline
The projects will be staggered across the upcoming years to manage costs effectively and ensure smooth progression. In fiscal year 2026, work is expected to begin on:
- A fire station expansion, including renovation and the addition of new facilities at Fire Station No. 4
- A pool heater installation at the Vestavia Hills Aquatic Complex located at Wald Park
- An access road providing better service to the new facilities and supporting infrastructure
In fiscal year 2027, the following projects are anticipated to start:
- The police operations building
- A satellite library along Sweeney Hollow Road
- The park maintenance building at Liberty Park
- The reconfiguration of the softball park’s back entrance
Supporting activities include the renovation and expansion of Fire Station No. 4 and the demolition of the existing park maintenance structure at Liberty Park’s softball fields.
Additional Infrastructure Developments
Beyond the main projects, the city is progressing with a pedestrian bridge that will span Highway 31, aiming to improve safety and access between Wald Park and the public library. The bridge project, costing around $3.2 million, is partially funded by the Alabama Department of Transportation, which covers 80% of the expenses.
Another ongoing project involved the sidewalk addition and road widening on Massey Road. However, construction has encountered delays due to the discovery of an unmarked water main, which prompted additional assessments and adjustments. The sidewalk, measuring 5 feet in width, along with repaving activities, is expected to be completed during the summer months.
Additional Project Details
The new development plans aim to improve the city’s infrastructure and public amenities while spreading out costs over fiscal years. The projects reflect the city’s commitment to enhancing community safety, transportation, recreational facilities, and public service infrastructure, ensuring long-term benefits for residents.
Mayor Ashley Curry noted the selection of Doster Construction was based on competitive pricing and the qualified personnel assigned to oversee the projects. The phased approach to construction aims to minimize disruption while maintaining progress on multiple fronts.
Conclusion
The investments in Vestavia Hills’ facilities mark a significant step in the city’s growth strategy, with construction activities expected to bring substantial improvements to the community facilities, safety infrastructure, and recreational amenities over the next few years. These projects are part of the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance residents’ quality of life and foster continued development within the region.
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Additional Resources
- Vestavia Voice: City Council Coverage
- Wikipedia: Vestavia Hills, Alabama
- AL.com: Funds Allocated for Highway 31 Upgrades
- Google Search: Vestavia Hills infrastructure projects
- ABC3340: Construction of Pedestrian Bridge
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Alabama
- The Bama Buzz: New Permits Issued
- Google News: construction projects Vestavia Hills
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