Construction To Begin On New Downtown Building

Fairhope, Alabama

CALLED THE 'THEATER BUILDING'

According to the Courier newspaper, construction will begin shortly on a 2 story 'New Orleans Creole-style'  building at the corner of Fairhope Ave and Church St. -- to be called the Theater Building in memory of the old Magnet Theater that once occupied the now-vacant lot.

Most recently called the Village Square (occupied by miscellaneous shops) the building was severely damaged by fire in 2010.

The cause of the fire that started in a small shop in front was never determined.

At least one restaurant is planned to be located downstairs in the new building and the rest retail shops.

The property is owned by Bethea and Reid Llc: John Bethea is a local realtor/developer and retired Judge James Reid.

The large oak tree located on the Church St. side is to be saved, according to Planning Director Johnathan Smith.




Comments

Anonymous said…
it needs its own parking lot.
Anonymous said…
Agree about the parking, but you have to admit, John has built some pretty buildings downtown.
Army Mom said…
Old building . Suspicious fire.

Does this town have a fire inspector?
Ben said…
Impressive building. Been waiting a long time for that vacant lot to have life again. Looks worth the wait. Pretty cool that they incorporated the giant oak. Another win for downtown Fairhope.

I don't worry about parking. Downtown is experienced best when walking a few blocks anyway.
Anonymous said…
There is a parking garage less than a block away from this building. I would call that plenty of parking.
Anonymous said…
Yes, and it is a shame that more people that work downtown don't use the parking garage and free up more parking on the streets.
Anonymous said…
I think the parking garage will soon be full when the tours of the flower clock start.
Anonymous said…
But, the flower clock will be out on N. Section by St. James. Do you think they might run some tour busses out there so everyone can see the impressive flower clock?
Anonymous said…
I miss Abners!!!!!
Anonymous said…
Shall we gather at the river, the beautiful, beautiful river - oops, I meant the flower clock.
Anonymous said…
What happened to the Assistant City Clerk? Where was she moved? Is she the assistant to Vice Mayor Sherry Sullivan?