Public hearing set for controversial $350 million Alabama resort development

A public hearing is set for May 19th on the controversial rezoning of property that would be the site of a $350 million resort development in Northport.

On Monday, the Northport City Council set the date for the hearing after holding a first reading of a rezoning request for the 76.2-acre property north of McFarland Boulevard and east of Harper Road.

Last year, the council approved the first step of the 11.73-acre “University Beach” project, which calls for a lake and sand beach, waterpark, lazy river and slides, as well as residential, dining and retail on property currently owned by the city off U.S. 82.

In April, the rezoning request received an unfavorable recommendation from the city’s planning and zoning commission.

The University Beach Special District would have two subdistricts, according to city documents, for residential and entertainment uses. A lagoon will tie the entire district together with trails, parks and plazas. Private beaches will be available to hotel guests and residents.

For the residential area, single and multi-family residences would be allowed, no higher than three stories. For the entertainment district, buildings will be no higher than seven stories or 85 feet.