The Northport City Council has approved a rezoning and special district plan for the proposed University Beach resort development, despite strong pushback from residents. According to a report from ABC 33/40, the vote followed nearly two hours of public discussion at Monday night’s council meeting and passed by a narrow 3-2 margin.

The development, which will span 76.2 acres near the Tuscaloosa National Airport, includes plans for a water park, hotel, housing, restaurants, and retail space. Supporters say the project is expected to attract an estimated 660,000 visitors each year and generate $61 million in tax revenue for Northport over the next decade, with a projected $254 million impact over 30 years.

RELATED: $350M University Beach Resort project proposed for Northport

The proposal has drawn criticism from community members who argue that the large-scale resort does not align with the city’s size, infrastructure, or character. Residents who attended the meeting urged council members to delay or reject the plan, expressing concerns over population density, traffic, and the city’s long-term vision.

Some council members shared those concerns. Councilwoman Jamie Dykes questioned the development’s financial transparency after being referred to an economic impact report she had not previously reviewed. Councilman Anwar Akin also raised concerns about flood risk in light of recent heavy rainfall

The project moved forward despite a prior unfavorable recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission. Council members ultimately voted to amend aspects of the special district plan to better align with zoning regulations, including removing allowances for storage uses not included in the original proposal.

Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].