Birmingham, Alabama, August 13, 2025
News Summary
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is partnering with Birmingham-based HPM to renovate 11 state parks across Alabama. This initiative aims to enhance visitor experiences and promote outdoor recreation through various upgrades, including lodge room renovations, new facilities, and water and wastewater projects. The $40 million investment reflects a commitment to improving park amenities and ensuring sustainable operations for future generations.
Birmingham, Alabama – The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) has teamed up with HPM, a Birmingham-based construction management firm, to initiate significant renovations and upgrades at 11 state parks across Alabama. This collaboration focuses on various aspects of project management, including program management, preconstruction services, and field coordination, with the overarching goal of enhancing visitor experiences and expanding public access to the parks.
The projects will involve extensive improvements designed to modernize facilities and promote outdoor recreation. HPM has a proven track record, having previously managed and coordinated renovations at several state parks. Their expertise includes a range of upgrades aimed at making these parks more accommodating for both residents and tourists.
Key Park Upgrades
Among the 11 state parks included in this upgrade initiative, several notable projects are already underway:
- Lakepoint State Park: Located north of Eufaula, HPM has overseen the renovation of 44 lodge rooms, improving both aesthetics and functionality.
- DeSoto State Park: In DeKalb County, HPM constructed a new pool house, equipping it with enhanced amenities for visitors.
- Wind Creek State Park: New accommodations have been added along the western edge of Lake Martin, with the completion of five 1,600-square-foot cottages and renovations for 72 camp sites.
- Cheaha State Park: A new 25-unit boutique hotel is being constructed, which will include a small café and rooftop bar.
- Meaher State Park: A new administration building, featuring staff offices and a visitor gift shop, is on the agenda.
Additional projects include extensive site improvements at Monte Sano State Park in Madison County and complete renovations at Lake Lurleen State Park in Tuscaloosa County, featuring new bathhouses, RV sites, and modern playground equipment. Lastly, Gulf State Park in Baldwin County will be transformed from a golf course into an RV resort, comprising 105 RV sites, multiple bathhouses, and a lively clubhouse with pool and recreational facilities.
Water and Wastewater Projects
Beyond the physical renovations at the parks, HPM is also managing $40 million worth of water and wastewater projects across 12 state parks in Alabama. These efforts demonstrate a commitment not only to improving park facilities but also to promoting environmental sustainability within park operations.
Future Prospects
Ryan Austin, president of HPM, has highlighted the firm’s dedication to enhancing Alabama’s state parks, emphasizing the importance of these upgrades for future generations and the promotion of outdoor recreation. This partnership with the ADCNR reflects shared goals aimed at increasing public access to outdoor activities and ensuring that Alabama’s natural resources remain a treasure for years to come.
Conclusion
Overall, the collaboration between HPM and the ADCNR marks a significant stride towards revitalizing Alabama’s state parks. These upgrades not only promise to support current visitors but also aim to attract future generations to experience the beauty and recreation that Alabama’s landscapes offer.
FAQ
- What is the purpose of the partnership between HPM and the ADCNR?
The partnership aims to enhance visitor experiences and expand public access across Alabama’s state parks through extensive renovations and upgrades.
- How many state parks are affected by this project?
Upgrades are planned for 11 state parks across Alabama.
- What types of improvements are being made at these parks?
Improvements include renovations of lodge rooms, construction of new facilities like pool houses and boutique hotels, and upgrades to water and wastewater systems.
- What is the projected investment for these upgrades?
HPM is managing approximately $40 million worth of water and wastewater projects, in addition to the broader renovation initiatives.
Key Features of the Upgrades
| State Park | Type of Upgrade | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Lakepoint | Room Renovation | Renovated 44 lodge rooms with aesthetic improvements. |
| DeSoto | New Pool House | Constructed a pool house with enhanced amenities. |
| Wind Creek | Cottages & Campsites | Completed five new cottages and renovated 72 campsites. |
| Cheaha | New Hotel | 25-unit boutique hotel, café, and rooftop bar in progress. |
| Meaher | New Administration Building | Includes offices and a gift shop for visitors. |
| Monte Sano | Site Improvements | Includes new sidewalks and renovated cabins. |
| Lake Lurleen | Complete Renovation | New bathhouses, gatehouse, boat piers, and RV sites. |
| Gulf State | RV Resort Conversion | Transforming existing golf course into RV resort with amenities. |
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Additional Resources
- WBRC News
- Bham Now
- AL.com News
- ABC3340 News
- Alabama Reflector
- Wikipedia: Alabama
- Google Search: Alabama state parks
- Google Scholar: Alabama state parks renovations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Alabama
- Google News: Alabama state parks
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
