Decatur City Council Approves Major Museum Expansion
The Decatur City Council voted four to one to partner with the Museum of Culinary Natural Sciences for a significant expansion that will nearly double the museum’s size and designate it as a state-recognized North Alabama STEM Center.
This project, supported by a $9.5 million state budget during the 2025 legislative session, is inspired by Alabama’s earlier investment in the Saban Center in Tuscaloosa, which serves as a STEM hub for West Alabama.
Since opening in June 2019, the Cook Museum has attracted over 512,000 visitors, with attendance steadily increasing since the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The upcoming expansion will grow the museum from 62,000 to close to 120,000 square feet, incorporating STEM labs, event spaces, dedicated programming areas, and a new exhibition gallery.
The city plans to support this initiative through land exchanges and the construction of new parking decks, aiming to replace about 300 existing spaces while adding capacity for an additional 400 to 500 vehicles. This parking development is also expected to benefit the nearby Princess Theatre and support 130 new hotel rooms from national brands.
Support for this project includes backing from the Decatur Downtown Redevelopment Authority, the Chamber of Commerce, and the local Tourism Authority. They have described it as a “one generation” investment, drawing comparisons to the expansion of Tennessee aquariums in Chattanooga as a model for how enhanced attractions can boost hotel stays, dining, and retail, leading to long-term economic benefits.
Daniel Gibson, Tourism Director, pointed out that visitors have already injected millions into the local economy, emphasizing the museum’s significance as a tourist attraction.
“This world-class facility is not just a nice touch,” Gibson mentioned. “It plays a crucial role in our tourism strategy.”
However, the vote was preceded by some critical concerns raised by residents and council members regarding costs, timing, and transparency. Councillor Billy Jackson, the sole “no” vote, expressed unease about the city’s financial obligations concerning the parking deck.
“In my view, we are signing a blank check. Without clarity on the city’s costs, I can’t support this today, especially for Decatur citizens,” Jackson noted.
Residents highlighted “ambiguous language” in the resolutions that might permit cities to allocate funds or incur infrastructure costs. Some voiced that the planning seemed rushed.
“Decatur citizens deserve transparency before commitments affect our city’s budget and resources,” said one community member.
City officials emphasized the importance of acting quickly to secure state funding and private investments, defending Council President Jacob Radner’s expedited approach.
“I was clear before anyone voted that we should act proactively to seize these opportunities,” Ladner remarked. “I believe this is a good project for our city. Delaying could be a mistake.”
With the council’s approval, the city will move forward with land exchanges and planning for the parking deck, paving the way for the museum expansion.
