Chick-fil-A to replace Old Fire College Building on McFarland Blvd in Tuscaloosa

If you have ever traveled to an Alabama Football home game in Tuscaloosa, it is a recognizable spot on McFarland Boulevard.  

Right before you reach Snow Hinton Park and University Mall, standing in front of the Bowlero bowling alley, there is the old Fire College Building with its three vehicle bays facing the street. 

Beginning this month, the building will be demolished to make way for a new Chick fil-A, confirmed the Tuscaloosa Thread.

Land Owned by University of Alabama

The 1.3 acres, which is owned by the University of Alabama, was rezoned last year from Institutional Use to Business. 

Earlier this week UA’s assistant director of communications Shane Dorrill told Tuscaloosa Thread the space will soon house a new Chick-fil-A.

“In Feb. 2020, the UA System Board of Trustees approved a lease agreement with Chick-fil-A, Inc., for a new restaurant with a drive-through to be built at the site of the old Fire College on McFarland Boulevard,” Dorrill said. “Now that the city has rezoned the area for business use the old building is being demolished so Chick-fil-A can begin construction.”

Good Deal for Chick-fil-A and University

This is a great deal for Chick-fil-A devotees and the University. 

For Chick-fil-A, the new location near University Mall replaces the “drive-thru” only Chick-fil-A which happens to be located directly across McFarland. 

The benefit for the University? They rent the property to Chick-fil-A for 15 years with renewal options for another 40. If the restaurant stays at the site for 55 years the property will generate $8.5 million in revenue for the University.

Are you a fan of Chick-fil-A? What do you think of the new spot in Tuscaloosa? Tell us your thoughts by tagging us on social media @thebamabuzz