$158 million agricultural center could be coming to Jefferson County

According to the Birmingham Business Journal (BBJ), a $158 million agricultural center could be coming to Jefferson County, right in the heart of Warrior. Keep reading for everything we know.

Warrior could be home to a new agricultural center

According to the Jefferson Country Commission, the Alabama Rural Economic Center is considering developing a large farm center in Warrior’s Hallmark Cooperative District.

The commission’s agenda shows that the proposal will be discussed during their meeting next Thursday.

Even if you’re not familiar with the history of Hallmark Farms, you’ve likely seen the iconic property while driving on I-65. Built by Ted and Marry Ruth Hallmark in 1976, the 565-acre farmland property includes a massive mansion, barns and landscaped grounds.

In 2018, the Hallmark Farms Cooperative, a joint initiative made up of members from the City of Warrior and Jefferson County, purchased the estate. The goal of the cooperative is to preserve the house while also providing new jobs and economic growth for the community. Part of future plans included the 2022 proposal for Marshall Steakhouse and Resort.

Here’s what we know about the new agricultural center

The BBJ gave a look of what to expect from the proposed center:

“The center is expected to cost about $158 million and attract events such as livestock and equestrian competitions, rodeos, family entertainment shows and concerts. It will also provide an opportunity to employ both temporary and permanent employees and attract the development of restaurants, retail and lodging, according to the meeting agenda.”

Marie Leech, Birmingham Business Journal

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