City Council discusses Southern Bypass retail development project with Willow Capital Partners

The Enterprise City Council convened on July 15, 2025, to address several key issues impacting the community, including updates on city infrastructure and a significant economic development project.

The meeting commenced with the privilege of the floor, allowing attendees to address the council. However, no members of the public chose to speak at this time. Following this, city engineer Barry Mott provided updates on ongoing projects. He reported that exterior renovations at City Hall are progressing well, with completion expected by August 11, 2025, in time for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Mott also announced that the engineering department has moved back to City Hall, making it easier for the public to access services.

Mott addressed a concern raised in the previous meeting regarding a dip on Daleville Avenue, which was caused by a settling sewer pipe. He confirmed that repairs have been made, and the situation will be monitored for any further issues.

The council then shifted focus to a resolution regarding a new economic development project. The proposed project aims to develop a minimum of 200,000 square feet of retail space along the Southern Bypass. This initiative is seen as transformative for the city, aiming to attract an anchor tenant and smaller businesses to address the issue of "leakage," where residents leave the community to shop elsewhere due to a lack of available goods and services.

The council discussed the importance of this project, emphasizing that it would not only provide more shopping options but also potentially increase local sales tax revenue by keeping residents within the community. The developer, Willow Capital Partners, was highlighted for their successful track record in similar projects across Alabama and the Southeast.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to enhancing city infrastructure and fostering economic growth, with plans for further discussions and follow-up actions in the coming months.