Tuscaloosa city council delays Sports Illustrated resort vote; councilor confident it’ll still pass
Tuscaloosa’s Sports Illustrated Resort Project Faces Delays
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — A highly debated project in Tuscaloosa, proposing the construction of the first Sports Illustrated resort in a college town, was slated for a final vote by the city council on Tuesday, but has been postponed. Detractors argue the development could lead to severe traffic congestion on busy game days, while supporters see it as a potential economic boon.
The city council chose to delay the vote due to the consistent opposition of two members, as the proposal requires unanimous approval. Instead, the council announced that, at their next meeting, a simple majority will suffice to advance the development. Councilman Kip Tyner expressed skepticism that the opposing council members would change their stance. Reflecting on the project’s evolution, Tyner noted that previous designs featured a nine-story structure with a large maintenance building, which he had opposed. Adjustments have since been made, including reducing the height to six stories and adding outdoor amenities like pickleball courts and a restaurant, impressing Tyner.
The project, backed by a $50 million investment, promises tax benefits that could aid the city for years. If the council grants approval at the next meeting on June 24, the developer aims to break ground by the end of the year.
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