HOOVER, Ala. — The city of Hoover formally opened its brand new Finley Center last week that officials hope will bring in more business from across the region. Named after legendary Berry High School Football Coach Bob Finley, the 155,000 square-foot facility completes phase one of the Hoover Metropolitan Complex project, which already contains the Metropolitan Stadium and an RV Park.
“As we celebrate our fiftieth year as a city, it is timely that we are opening this new facility today,” Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato said last week. “The Finley Center will bring competitive tournaments; great sporting traditions, non-profit fundraisers, business gatherings and more to Hoover. The impact will not only benefit our community, but the state of Alabama.”
Prior to its official grand opening, the Finley Center was already put to use as the host of SEC Baseball FanFest. Hoover hosts the SEC Baseball Tournament next door at its Metropolitan Stadium, and the multiuse facility was pitched to the SEC as a reason the tournament should stay in the city.
The Finley Center includes a walking track, performance center, food court, flexible meeting space, and clip ‘n climb attraction. Its 83,000 square foot clear-span space can be used to accommodate 11 regulation-size basketball courts, 17 regulation-size volleyball courts, trade shows with 300 booths, 2,400-seat banquets, or theatre-style seating for 5,000. Additionally, its drop down netting allows for the facility to be used for multiple events at once.
Outdoor facilities that will be included in phase two expansion are five NCAA regulation-size soccer/football/lacrosse fields, five NCAA regulation-size baseball/softball fields, 16 tennis courts with pro shop, a playground, a splash pad, and a large event lawn.
According to estimates from the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Finley Center is expected to bring an economic impact between $27 million and $33 million to Hoover. Those who helped build the facility believe its quality will help attract people to the city.
“This facility is on the leading edge of that trend and will have a significant economic impact on the City of Hoover.” said Brasfield & Gorrie Senior Project Manager Stephen Franklin.
