CentrAL INC! | Central Alabama Business Journal No January/February 2025 | Page 15

19 . WETUMPKA WILL LAUNCH THEIR NEW TOURISM INITIATIVE , DISCOVER WETUMPKA 2025 marks an exciting new chapter for Wetumpka ’ s tourism scene with the launch of Discover Wetumpka , the city ’ s first dedicated tourism initiative . Featuring a dynamic new website and active social media channels on Facebook and Instagram , Discover Wetumpka will showcase the city ’ s natural beauty , rich history and unique attractions to visitors near and far .
20 . DUTCH BROS COFFEE SET TO OPEN IN PRATTVILLE Founded in 1992 , Dutch Bros Coffee has grown to over 950 locations nationwide and is now making its way to Prattville . The company plans to open its first local location at 1874 E . Main Street in the first quarter of 2025 .
21 . NEW PARK SET TO OPEN A 52,000 SQUARE FOOT NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER IN MONTGOMERY New Park is a master planned community in the River Region . The development offers assisted living sites , multifamily sites , single family sites , commercial sites and retail sites including a 52,000 sq ft neighborhood center projected to open in fall 2025 . The center will offer a grocery store , shop space and outparcels .
22 . WETUMPKA ’ S CROMMELIN PARK REOPENS WITH EXCITING NEW FEATURES The enhanced park now boasts a brand-new dog park , thoughtfully designed with separate areas for big and small dogs , ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all furry friends . Additionally , the city has added six state-of-the-art pickleball courts , catering to the growing demand for this popular sport .
23 . THE TOWN OF PIKE ROAD ANNOUNCES NEW ADDITIONS TO THE COMMUNITY This year , Pike Road can look forward to the completion of an all-inclusive community playground and witness progress in the Town ’ s steps toward improving its Arts District , which includes plans for adding a community theater / auditorium and a historic community gathering facility , along with a multipurpose arts and recreation facility .
24 . CREATIVE PLACEMAKING COMMUNITIES AND THE KING ’ S CANVAS TO HOLD CONFERENCE The Power of Community Conference will be held on April 1-3 at the Kress on Dexter . This conference serves as the annual gathering of creative placemaking professionals in the Southern region and is centered on social and economic justice , equity and inclusion and grassroots community-led efforts that create positive impact and enhance the quality of life for smaller communities across the Southern U . S . The Keynote Speaker will be the Internationally Renowned Attorney and Civil Rights Leader , Bryan Stevenson .
25 . MONTGOMERY SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL IS MOVING TO 2025 The Montgomery Smooth Jazz Festival was scheduled for September 2024 , but has been rescheduled to March 14-15 of this year . The festival celebrates various music genres with an emphasis on Smooth Jazz and R & B and consists of two days filled with live music at the Riverfront Amphitheater , food trucks , vendors and more . Any previously purchased tickets will remain valid for the new date .

Bill Gillespie , Jr .

Prattville Mayor
“ As Mayor , I will continue fostering economic growth , improving public infrastructure and ensuring our community remains safe and welcoming . I look forward to working with our citizens , businesses and city and community leaders to build a brighter , stronger future for our city . I want Prattville to continue to be where people want to live , work and raise their families . There is progress in Prattville . We ’ re building on our success , shaping a brighter tomorrow .”

Jerry Willis

Wetumpka Mayor
“ We are very expectant and hopeful as we look ahead to 2025 . We ’ re excited about the new opportunities and developments coming into our city . This growth not only brings fresh opportunities but also strengthens our existing businesses and helps ensure long-term sustainability for our community . By fostering a thriving local economy , we are creating a stronger foundation for Wetumpka ’ s future , ensuring our city remains a great place to live , work and visit for generations to come .”
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