BY JON HARRISON/Staff Writer

MONTEVALLO- The city of Montevallo is continuing research on a possible hotel in the downtown area.

“The first feasibility study showed that we could definitely support a hotel in Montevallo,” said Councilwoman Dee Woodham. “However, that study was done over a year ago and we want to be sure we have the most recent and accurate information.”

Woodham is the chairwoman of the Montevallo Development Cooperative District, the three-person committee in charge of overseeing the progression of the Montevallo hotel project.

“We are continuing to review all of our current information and deciding the best way to move forward,” said Woodham.

The city is in the process of conducting a second feasibility study. The feasibility study will look at market issues, technical and operational issues and a basic financial overview for the city of Montevallo. The study also will look at the economic impact of the city’s university, the National Cemetery and American Village.

There were originally four sites being considered for the hotel site, one of which would have caused the relocation of Montevallo’s City Hall. However, it has now been decided that Jeter Hall on the University of Montevallo’s campus will be the site the committee will officially propose.

The hotel is still projected to have 70 rooms, an 80 person meeting space, 10-person boardroom and an aquatics center.

“We will have a clearer direction for the project towards the end of January after the second feasibility study is complete,” said County Manager Alex Dudchock.