Work starts on $150 million Sports Illustrated resort in Alabama

Big changes are coming to the Tuscaloosa riverfront. Developers are set to break ground this week on a massive $150 million project under the Sports Illustrated resort banner, marking a major milestone for the area.

A New Era of Sports Hospitality

The project, located at 190 Rice Mine Road North, was first announced in 2023. It is part of a broader vision to establish lifestyle complexes in college towns that boast passionate fan bases. The venture is led by Travel + Leisure, the company behind familiar brands like Club Wyndham, Margaritaville Vacation Club, and the Eddie Bauer Adventure Club.

Navigating Growth and Community Feedback

The road to construction hasn't been without its hurdles. A larger initial design faced significant pushback from local residents concerned about potential traffic congestion on Rice Mine Road. Those early plans featured a 137-room hotel paired with four towers of timeshares and condos.

Following that public input, the project was overhauled and eventually cleared by Tuscaloosa city leadership. The approved version now mandates that no buildings exceed six stories in height, while incorporating approximately 12,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space.

What Guests Can Expect

Once complete, the resort will feature 161 total units designed to offer an immersive, sports-themed experience. Much like the existing Sports Illustrated resorts in Chicago and Nashville, the Tuscaloosa location aims to serve as a hub for concerts and events tied to the local sporting calendar.

This project arrives as Sports Illustrated expands its footprint, with another location planned for Baton Rouge involving an investment by NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal.

Developers noted that the Tuscaloosa resort is moving forward without any incentive packages from the city. The project is projected to generate roughly 1,100 construction jobs and add 120 permanent positions to the local economy.