Construction will begin this summer on a new $43.7 million recreation center and library near the intersection of Alabama 119 and Thompson Road.
The Clements Dean Building Company is constructing the new rec center and library on about 24 acres off one of the city’s major corridors. Construction will likely be complete in late 2026.
“We’re so excited to move forward with this plan to breathe new life into one of our most high-profile parts of town and finally have an opportunity to give our residents the recreation center and library they deserve,” said Alabaster Mayor Scott Brakefield. “This will allow us to continue our vision of creating a true city center including the Police Department, City Hall, Senior Center, entertainment options and future recreation center and library.”
The rec center will include:
• Three multipurpose indoor courts
• Event and meeting space
• An indoor walking track
• A workout and fitness area
• An outdoor pool and splash pad
The new library will be about 19,000 square feet and will nearly triple the space of the current library, provide greatly expanded collections and provide greater space for library programming and community events.
Improvements have also been made to the Alabama 119-Thompson Road intersection, including a new right turn lane on 119 and signal improvements. The road improvements were completed in fall 2025.
The corner fronting Thompson Road and Alabama 119 will house a retail development. The rec center, library and retail development will also have ample on-site parking.
These new amenities will join other recent city investments in the Siluria Mill District, including the new Alabaster Police Department, Senior Center expansion, amphitheater and renovations to Larry Simmons Stadium and Jim “Peanut” Davenport baseball field.
Follow below for updates:
November 2024: Road improvements begin near intersection of Thompson Road and Alabama 119.
January 2025: Demolition of former Thompson Intermediate School begins.
April 2025: City Council awards rec center and library construction bid to the Clements Dean Building Company.
July 2025: Demolition of former TIS complete.
Paving begins on new turn lanes at intersection of Thompson Road and Alabama 119.
Foundation work begins on new library.
City Council approves development agreement to bring new restaurants and retail to corner of Thompson Road and Alabama 119.
August 2025: City officially breaks ground on the project.
September 2025: Foundation prep begins on new rec center.
Road widening and improvements completed near the intersection of Thompson Road and Alabama 119.
October 2025: Roof is installed on new library.
Foundation pours begin on new rec center.
December 2025: Most of exterior structure of new library is completed
Steel supports and roofing work begins on new rec center.
