Birmingham’s Family Fun Center: A New Era of Entertainment on the Horizon
Big news hit Birmingham recently, and it’s about time families had something to celebrate! On October 9, the City Council greenlit an essential ordinance that clears the way for groundbreaking to begin on a much-anticipated Family Fun Center located at the Birmingham CrossPlex in Five Points West. This million project promises to transform the area’s entertainment landscape and provide families with a much-needed recreational outlet right in their city.
What’s Inside the Family Fun Center?
The Family Fun Center is set to be a sprawling 20,000 square feet of fun and excitement, catering to people of all ages. This innovative facility will be constructed as a pivotal part of a larger mixed-use development planned for the CrossPlex area—a visionary space that aims to connect community members through shared experiences.
The extensive range of attractions in the Family Fun Center includes:
– A skating rink for roller and ice skating enthusiasts
– A jump park where kids and adults can bounce the day away
– An e-sports center equipped for gaming tournaments and casual play
– A bowling alley for friendly competition and family bonding
– A food court offering a variety of dining choices, from comfort food to healthy snacks
– Plus, several additional recreational activities to be announced!
Inclusivity is a core value of this initiative, as the City of Birmingham plans to feature sensory rooms to accommodate all guests, including those with special needs. This thoughtful touch reflects the city’s commitment to ensuring every resident feels welcome and included.
A Vision Realized
The dream for the Family Fun Center began back in 2022 when Mayor Randall Woodfin announced plans to create this dynamic space. With the project now officially moving forward, excitement is palpable among local families eager for a safe and enjoyable venue.
Mayor Woodfin expressed the significance of this development: “This is a great day for the families of Birmingham. No longer will residents have to look outside our city for a safe, fun place to enjoy time with loved ones. This center will not only bring new revenue to the area, but also a new, exciting energy that will invigorate the community and beyond.”
This sentiment was echoed by Cornell Wesley, the Director of Innovation and Economic Opportunity for the city. He articulated both relief and excitement around the project: “Relief in that it has been two years in the making, and excitement for the community and Birminghamians at large about what this will yield, not only for the west side of Birmingham, but for the city itself.”
Timeline and Next Steps
With the ordinance approval now a reality, the next significant step involves appointing a contractor to carry out the construction. The city anticipates the groundbreaking to happen within the next 30 days and estimates that the entire build process will take about 18 months. Fascinatingly, this is a continuation of the city’s trend of partnering with the Public Athletic, Cultural, and Entertainment Facilities (PACE) board, a relationship that has previously resulted in successful projects like the Regions Field and Rickwood Field.
Attracting Visitors and Supporting Local Economy
The development of the Family Fun Center is anticipated to be a major economic boost for Birmingham. Not only will it create jobs during its construction and operational phases, but it will also attract visitors from surrounding areas, contributing to local businesses and fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
For families, the center represents a shift in how entertainment is experienced in the city. Imagine being able to host birthday parties, engage in friendly competitions, and spend quality time without venturing outside Birmingham. The center aims to become the go-to destination for family outings, making Birmingham a more inviting and engaging place to live.
Get Involved!
As we gear up for the arrival of the Family Fun Center, locals are encouraged to share their thoughts on what aspects of the project excites them the most. Whether you’re a roller skate fanatic or looking forward to the e-sports center, tag us on Instagram @bhamnow with your thoughts!
In conclusion, the Family Fun Center isn’t just another attraction—it’s a transformational project aimed at enhancing community connections, promoting family engagement, and energizing the local economy. Birmingham, get ready; something spectacular is on its way!
