Tuscaloosa takes step closer to welcoming first Sports Illustrated Resort

Tuscaloosa could possibly be the first home to a Sports Illustrated resort.

Monday, September 16, the Tuscaloosa Planning and Zoning Commission approved the first set of votes for the development project.

The committee asked several questions regarding the timeshare aspect of the project and how the developer plans to fill the resort after football season.

Austin Bolton, director of the company’s community projects stated Tuscaloosa was chosen for multiple reasons, one of them being its rich sports culture.

“Tuscaloosa, the University of Alabama and their athletic history, we are excited to be here. Getting through this first commission we appreciate every one of the committees, for hearing us out tonight and we are excited to move on to city council in a few weeks and get the ball rolling,” said Bolton.

City leaders in Tuscaloosa believe this resort will help solidify Tuscaloosa as a destination location.

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“Obviously the success on campus, the success of football and sports in general has created a lot of excitement in Tuscaloosa and Sports Illustrated obviously is aware and wants to invest in such,” said Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama CEO Kyle South.

The resort will consist of a ten-story hotel, timeshares, condos plus retail space, all tailored to attract the attention of sports fans.

“So, every one of these investments is a draw to our community and we just have to look at strategically expanding that footprint and it will bring dollars in that weren’t here before and that’s always what we look for,” said South.

The resort is expected to sit off the Black Warrior River on Rice Mine, connecting itself to the River Walk.

“It’s going to be a ton of business opportunities, tons of people coming in and out from all over the country because the school is very well known so very good spot for business,” said 9Round trainer Jalen Arnold.