Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox, District 6 Councilor John Faile and Chief Executive Officer of PARA Brian Davis spoke during the ceremony.

“Communities are defined by how they care for their children and their seniors, and our City Council’s commitment to building a first-class therapeutic pool here at the Belk Center reflects the values we share,” Mayor Walt Maddox said. “For seven years, through Elevate Tuscaloosa, we have kept our promise to make meaningful investments into our community, and this project is yet another example of fulfilling that commitment.” 

Additions to the Belk Center will include a new indoor therapy pool, front lobby and locker rooms. There will also be enhancements made to the roof, gym floor and parking lot. 

“Bowers Park is a place where generations of children have learned, grown and played,”  Councilor John Faile said. “With these updates, it will continue to serve people of all ages with even more opportunities. These improvements reflect the kinds of investments that make Tuscaloosa a great place to live, and they will leave a lasting impact on our community’s future.”

“We are very grateful to the Mayor and City Council,” said PARA CEO Brian Davis. “The investments that have been made through Elevate over the past seven years are about so much more than buildings and infrastructure; they’re about creating opportunities for people to live healthier, more active lives.”

Construction is expected to be complete by fall 2027.