When one thinks of pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters, central Alabama doesn’t exactly come to mind.
But after the unveiling of a highly-anticipated aquatic mixed-use development center in Northport — that looks to be in the process of changing.
The new development, University Beach, reportedly consists of: 10 acres of water and beaches, a 77-acre University Beach development, 20-acres of beach club and water attractions, a 130-room beachfront resort, 64 custom single-family residences, and a variety of dining and entertainment options.
Jeff Hogg, Northport Council President, elaborated on the economic impact the new development will have on the city.
“This project represents a $350 million dollar investment, one of the single largest mixed-use developments in our region, that will produce numerous jobs, new tourism, and be a positive economic engine in Northport for generations to come.”
University Beach, LLC, played a major role in making the facility and unlikely beach oasis a reality.
Kent Donahue, managing member of the company, said that it is excited to open the location to the public.
“We are thrilled about the University Beach project and have assembled a team that is ready to deliver everything that Northport has been promised and more – a unique, experiential, water-themed destination that will be a must-see in the State of Alabama.”
Key Highlights of University Beach:
Beach Club: Featuring 10 acres of turquoise water, the Beach Club offers a plethora of activities from swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball to enjoying chef-inspired cuisine and craft cocktails at the swim-up bar. With private cabanas, loungers, and a party palapa, guests can relax in style.
Water Park: The University Beach water park offers a variety of attractions and activities for all ages and abilities, including a lazy river, waterslides, and children’s interactive water features. Guests can also enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, water volleyball and challenge themselves on a floating obstacle course. The facility is designed with accessibility features and options to allow all guests and their families the opportunity to enjoy themselves.
Live Music Venue: With a capacity of up to 2,000 guests, the Beach Club’s open-air venue hosts regular events, parties, and live music performances.
Resort: The 130-room boutique beachfront hotel offers exclusive amenities such as resort beach with private cabana rentals, rooftop dining, an infinity pool, a state-of-the-art fitness facility, and concierge services. There is also a 15,000 square foot waterfront event center and private tropical event island
Beach Home Residences: Experience beach lifestyle living in one of the 64 exclusive custom beach homes with direct access to a private resident beach with sun loungers, cabanas, and a beach bar.
Retail Boardwalk: Lined with cafes and boutique retail establishments, providing visitors and residents with a unique dining and shopping experience.
University Beach is just minutes away from the University of Alabama, the Tuscaloosa National Airport, and the soon to be constructed River Run Park
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.
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