New Coosa Harbor development takes step toward groundbreaking
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An empty lot between Highway 411 and the Coosa River in Gadsden will soon be the home of a new development for retail, lodging and much more.
Just before the end of 2024, the Gadsden City Council authorized the official site preparation work for the Coosa Harbor. The developer, Patrick Lawler, also helped create the $30 million City Harbor which has been a success on Lake Guntersville.
Keep reading for more information on the latest plans for the development + when you should expect to see the riverfront venue officially open.
Coosa Harbor
The agreement between the city and Coosa Harbor outlines the company’s commitment to designing, developing, and constructing in alignment with the presented Development Plan.
The plan, which is expected to cost at least $20 million, currently includes:
- 20 condos (2 bed + 2 bath)
- Big Mike’s Steakhouse
- Levi’s on the Lake
- Additional retail + restaurant spaces
Coosa Harbor is expected to be developed on the land where Rainbow Cinemas used to be located.
The city hopes this project will bring significant revitalization to the Coosa River waterfront, using city-owned property that has remained undeveloped for more than two decades.
“This isn’t a pie-in-the-sky idea. This is what is happening. The Coosa Harbor development is a game-changer for Gadsden, and it will open new doors for economic growth and community development along the Coosa River. This is a true milestone in our city’s progress.”
~ Craig Ford, Gadsden mayor
When will it open?
The short answer is not particularly soon. There is still a lot of planning to be done before construction can began but that has not slowed down the excitement from the city.
The agreement voted on by the city council includes a specific timeline.
Lawler must begin construction within 18 months of the retail deal being completed. The project must be completed within four years (Dec. 2028).
For City Harbor, the construction permit was officially approved in March 2021. It opened at Lake Guntersville in May 2022.
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