[BlessedMobile]

Development Jobs Investment N/E Location Description
1. Wind Capital Group 2,500 $300 N DeKalb Co., Mo. Wind Farm

I want to see the wind farm that produces 2,500 jobs. That is quite a stretch and for ONLY $300 million too. I doubt it ever happens.

[SouthSky]

This could do us some good:

"Alabama Passes White Collar Incentive Package

In May the Alabama state Legislature approved new incentives designed to help recruit white collar jobs to the state. The bill was signed by Alabama Gov. Bob Riley in late May. The legislation enhances Alabama's recruitment arsenal so that industries other than manufacturing are eligible for the state's economic incentives. With the new law, economic developers will be able to use incentives to attract corporate headquarters, high-tech research and development facilities and jobs in the newly emerging green economy."

[OCA REP]

This could do us some good:

"Alabama Passes White Collar Incentive Package

In May the Alabama state Legislature approved new incentives designed to help recruit white collar jobs to the state. The bill was signed by Alabama Gov. Bob Riley in late May. The legislation enhances Alabama's recruitment arsenal so that industries other than manufacturing are eligible for the state's economic incentives. With the new law, economic developers will be able to use incentives to attract corporate headquarters, high-tech research and development facilities and jobs in the newly emerging green economy."

:previous:

:tup:

[SouthSky]

Mobile is the nation's #36 most environmentally sound mid-size city.

http://www.bizjournals.com/birmingham/stories/2009/07/13/daily24.html

"Huntsville ranked seventh in the medium cities list... Mobile ranked 36th, Birmingham ranked 121st and Montgomery ranked 149th out of the 176 medium cities listed."

[Verve]

Here's a link to the article about potential new office space at Brookley. It would be a nice addition to the engineering center that's already there. Although, it would be even better to have it downtown.

http://www.al.com/business/press-register/index.ssf?/base/business
/124816778664890.xml&coll=3 (http://www.al.com/business/press-register/index.ssf?/base/business/124816778664890.xml&coll=3)

[Port_of_Bama]

Yeah I would rather se it downtown as well but atleast thers is some sort of development going omn in that area.

Verve: How`s Tally treating you ?

[Bogue]

Blessed... maybe they're counting initial construction? Can't imagine there being a need for that many permanent jobs there unless there's more to it than just a wind farm. I also wonder why Missouri is being considered as part of the "South" in that list. I always thought they considered themselves "Midwestern"?

Brookley is essentially a part of downtown. The folks who work there will have at least some impact on the area. The folks in charge of that project want a building built for them & it would seem they're more into one that's wider than tall. Brookley just seems more appropriate all-around for that kind of structure.

I like the news about the city making 36th most environmentally-sound city. Lots of potential to move up that list. Hopefully, the new building codes will help create some momentum to create better structures. If only the medieval billing process used by the power companies to keep people from using self-generating power supplies (solar panels, etc.) could be eliminated. I saw where they altered it in Baldwin County, but it's still ridiculous. Having non-profits be in charge of energy dispersal was a great system for its time but the new technologies in electricity generation turns the system from an enormous good to a stumbling block for progress. May be time to let the state fully take over electricity transmission to get those kind of impedances out of the way.

[MobiMan]

Hey everyone,

I hope everyone is doing well

Well unimployment is above 10% in Mobile
Crime has risen just as fast
I live on Sage Ave and was broken into 2 months ago and got my
lawnmower stolen a week ago
The first time a called the cops it took them
over and hour to get there
and as i waited 3 cops passed by, but ofcourse kept going
second time it wasnt any better

we just got 31 new police officers
and guess what they are going to be put in west mobile
where the least crime is

and guess what, if they would have hired 35 officers
the federal Government would have paid for 20 additional officers
so for 4 more officers we would have gotten 20 extra

now that being said, i do understand 4 more officers would cost us (the city)
over a $100.000 more a year
but i also do believe it would be worth it



So i bought a shot gun and a 45
and a pitbull
and i also got ADT
and I posted Beware Of Dog signs aswell as ADT signs
oh yea i also put more lights outside


Now lets see if that does any good

Ok sorry about all the complaining
im ready to see some new things being done around town
If i were only a billionaire
the things we would see around here

We all have dreams for Mobile
the only problem is the people with control and power have different Dreams
than we do

So is there any new credible news out there
ive been trying to catch up on here and have read a lot of nice and exciting things, just hope they come to pass

I still go downtown about everyother weekend
and on sunday i just wish things stayed open longer, or opened at all
i was thinking the Movies in the park idea we had awhile back would be perfect on sundays during the summer
people could get there early like around 5 shop, walk around, and eat
and then watch a movie around 7:30 or 8 since thats about when it gets dark enough... they could play movies in a few different areas
give everyone options
keep it familly orientated, kids movie, action movie, romantic comedy, ect. ect....

[Alabadrock]

I've been wondering. With all the jobs that have, and will, come to the city that are involved in engineering and more technical work, does anyone think that USA might start putting a bit more emphasis on their engineering department? Sorta like Huntsville did once the federal government started investing more in the city in the mid 1900s.

[Verve]

Yeah I would rather se it downtown as well but atleast thers is some sort of development going omn in that area.

Verve: How`s Tally treating you ?

Tally has been good so far. Some differences but a number of similarities to Mobile especially the weather. :) It's good to be able to keep up with happenings in Mobile via this board. I have been back to the city a lot during the first half of the year. Stayed at new Hampton Inn. Royal Street is starting to look real good especially in the area of the Riverview.

[Port_of_Bama]

I've been wondering. With all the jobs that have, and will, come to the city that are involved in engineering and more technical work, does anyone think that USA might start putting a bit more emphasis on their engineering department? Sorta like Huntsville did once the federal government started investing more in the city in the mid 1900s.

Yeah USA and Faulkner both suppose to be expanding there aerospace engineering depts.

[Port_of_Bama]

Tally has been good so far. Some differences but a number of similarities to Mobile especially the weather. :) It's good to be able to keep up with happenings in Mobile via this board. I have been back to the city a lot during the first half of the year. Stayed at new Hampton Inn. Royal Street is starting to look real good especially in the area of the Riverview.

Good iv`e heard Tally is a nice college town.

Yes Royal street has come a loooong ways.

[bayou15]

http://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs013/1101527825688/img/455.jpg?a=1102626543574

[Bayside]

That looks better than an empty lot.

[phoenixboi08]

http://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs013/1101527825688/img/455.jpg?a=1102626543574

Not bad...would be better if there was street level shops/restaurants/etc...but I doubt that'll happen.

[Port_of_Bama]

http://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs013/1101527825688/img/455.jpg?a=1102626543574



Yes it does look better than an empty lot. It would have been nice it was a midrise,but atleast they could have added baclonies to the place.Again it`s better than an empty lot !!

[BlessedMobile]

http://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs013/1101527825688/img/455.jpg?a=1102626543574

I saw a Candlewood just off I-59 in Hattiesburg and it didn't look bad. It was 4 stories and had good, clean lines. I suppose ours will fit the downtown look.

[Port_of_Bama]

I hope.

[TheMobilian]

Hello everyone

What corner is that Hotel going to be located?

[SouthSky]

^ I believe it's Royal and St. Louis.

---

SaltAire news:
http://blog.al.com/live/2009/07/developers_of_mobile_bay_commu.html

The developers of the 500-acre SaltAire residential community off Ala. 193 on Mobile Bay's western shoreline filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection late Wednesday, blocking a foreclosure sale set for this morning, according to their attorney.

The Chapter 11 filing gives Mobile Bay Investments 120 days to come up with a proposal to restructure its debt and repay creditors, according to attorney Michael Smith, who represents the developers...

[TheMobilian]

Thank You Very Much SouthSky, For The Info

[SouthSky]

Thank You Very Much SouthSky, For The Info

By the way, welcome to the forum!

[Dyingyak]

From the latest issue of DesignAlabama...thought you Mobilians might like to see your current state-wide press.

http://www.designalabama.org/feature_pdfs/412-Dauphin-St-0709.pdf

[BuenaVista]

From the latest issue of DesignAlabama...thought you Mobilians might like to see your current state-wide press.

http://www.designalabama.org/feature_pdfs/412-Dauphin-St-0709.pdf

This project caused Mr. Brown to be ousted from the Architectural Review Board, because he did not follow the approved plans.

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

Never satisfied with the status quo, restaurateur Todd Henson (recently featured in Southern Living magazine) is expanding the offerings at 219 (Conti Street). The Noodle Nook now features fast, fresh pasta dishes on the Market at 219 side of the restaurant.

One of downtown's most engaging gift shops will be moving to its permanent location next to Bienville Square early next month. Inside Up has spent the last several months in temporary space at 80 St. Michael Street while the new location at 7 N. Conception Street was being renovated. And since no one moves without having a sale, you'll be able to take advantage of bargains on existing merchandise. Be sure to stop by the St. Michael Street location before the end of the month and ask for a free glass of lemonade while you shop!

Speaking of great shopping, the gift shop at the Renaissance Riverview Hotel is now the exclusive downtown outlet for the hottest footwear trend...Switch Flops! The affordable, cleverly designed shoe has interchangeable bands to coordinate with everything in your closet. The shop also carries Mobile memorabilia...great gifts for anyone living in Mobile, or those who just wish they were.

The popular Royal Street eatery, Royal Scam, has just completed a kitchen renovation to accommodate a new menu. In the next week or so, look for items like a 12 oz. bone-in pork chop with an apple bordelaise sauce or a petite fillet. Owner David Rasp made sure the renovation included a fryer so you can now order House Fries with lunch. And we can't wait to try the burger that comes with a caution: This is not your father's Hero Burger!

One of the things we love about downtown is the ingenuity of its entrepreneurs. The struggling Unity Print Collective at 211 Dauphin Street is undergoing a dramatic makeover that will transform it into the Hotdog Gallery. Yes, hot dogs and art! The new gallery will include pop art, games and hot dogs, both meat and vegan. Artwork and collectibles will be reviewed for consignment. Look for this delightful combination of art and food to open in the next week or two.

This is from the Downtown Mobile Alliance Newsletter. If you want more info and news, look them up online, and you can sign up for the e-Newsletter.
Also, CommonWealth National Bank recently celebrated its official Grand Opening.

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

The Mobile City Council recently expanded the boundaries for the Mobile Downtown Redevelopment Authority. The new area extends east of the Mobile River to the city limits, taking in shipyards, development around Battleship Park and some undeveloped land. This means that capital projects in this area are eligible for GO Zone funding and the newer Recovery Zone Facility bonds, which are part of the stimulus package

Same source as above, Downtown Alliance.

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

Well unimployment is above 10% in Mobile

Got something to back that up? Last I checked the highest estimate I could find was 9.6%.

[MobiMan]

Got something to back that up? Last I checked the highest estimate I could find was 9.6%.

I read it in the Mobile Press-Resgister
July, 17

Go to al.com and look it up

I wish i would have read it wrong but unfortunately i didn't

Oh and thanks for all the good Info

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

Bright lights in the city
Stimulus money buys Mobile new LED traffic signals

Sunday, July 26, 2009
By MIKE BRANTLEY
Staff Reporter

The city of Mobile is spending $911,000 in federal economic stimulus money to replace all its incandescent traffic signal lights with new, more efficient LED lights.

Approximately 3,000 traffic signal heads at about 300 intersections are being replaced this year, said Bill Metzger, the city's traffic engineering director.

"We had 150-watt incandescent bulbs," Metzger said. "These new LED ones are about 12 watts. They are actually brighter, and they last so much longer."

Brighter means safer, as motorists will be able to more easily see the traffic signals that rely on LEDs, or light emitting diodes, that signal when to stop, go, slow or turn.

The lower wattage means a real savings in power bills, Metzger said.

Each replaced red light, for example, will save the city about $29 a year in electricity, Metzger said.

"It's using stimulus money, and then we are turning around and getting money back on it," he said. "Rather than using the money one time, we are also getting the power savings. Plus, these things will last about 10 years before they start dimming out."

The old incandescent bulbs were replaced every two years, by comparison, Metzger pointed out.

The city first began trying LED lamps in traffic signals eight years ago, when some of the red bulbs were replaced with the new style. In about six months, every red, yellow and green light will feature the LED technology, Metzger said.

The city also is using some of the federal stimulus money to replace 482 pedestrian crossing signals with new LED models of an improved design. The new signals feature a countdown, telling pedestrians exactly how long they have to cross a street.

"We are doing the pedestrian signals to try and make it a little clearer to people when they are supposed to cross the street," Metzger said. "With the countdown, it's a little more obvious when they can go and how long they have to cross the street."
http://www.al.com/news/press-register/press.ssf?/base/community/1248599799297870.xml&coll=3

That's too bad about our unemployment rate. We'll get through it, though. :fingerscrossed:

[SouthSky]

Interesting Lagniappe article about the influx of Germans into Mobile:

http://www.lagniappemobile.com/articles/2450-from-germany-to-mobile-the-deutsch-influence-in-lower-alabama

[Alabadrock]

Interesting Lagniappe article about the influx of Germans into Mobile:

http://www.lagniappemobile.com/articles/2450-from-germany-to-mobile-the-deutsch-influence-in-lower-alabama

A very good read. I wish that Mercedes had as much of an impact as TK is having on Mobile. I think it's very important to create a diverse demographic in a city. I think these people will really help the development of downtown. You have to have a population that wants to go downtown to create a vibrant downtown, and this article leads me to believe that the Germans may rub off on the natives.

[phoenixboi08]

Interesting Lagniappe article about the influx of Germans into Mobile:

http://www.lagniappemobile.com/articles/2450-from-germany-to-mobile-the-deutsch-influence-in-lower-alabama

And to think, my mother thought I should have learned SPANISH to get ahead...NO! It's been, and always will be, German for me! lol :D

[Verve]

http://www.al.com/news/press-register/press.ssf?/base/community/1248599799297870.xml&coll=3

That's too bad about our unemployment rate. We'll get through it, though. :fingerscrossed:

Good news about the funding for the traffic signals and especially the countdown signals. They have been in use in a lot of cities and it's time that Mobile puts them in use. It might even help those crossing Water Street going to the Convention Center and waterfront.

[SouthSky]

Economist article on Mobile
Let's have a party
A city that looks beyond the recession

http://www.economist.com/world/unitedstates/displaystory.cfm?story_id=14140365

IN JUNE a delegation of officials from Alabama packed their bags for the Paris Air Show. Along with officials from Mississippi and Florida they held a reception in the Eiffel Tower and enjoyed a cruise on the Seine. They appeared to be having a very good time, reported someone from Washington state, which is nervously eyeing Alabama’s growing aerospace industry.

How, in these bad times, can Alabama or Mobile, its most charming city, be so jolly? In June the state’s unemployment rate hit 10.1%, more than double what it was a year ago. And things will get worse before they get better: a new survey from the University of Alabama says that business leaders expect the state’s economy to go on shrinking in the third quarter.

Nevertheless, people in Alabama, particularly in the south-west corner that includes Mobile, are refusing to be daunted. And their confidence is not misplaced. In recent years both city and state have been on a blitz of economic development. Most Alabamans trace the change back to 1993, when the state managed to land a Mercedes plant. This was a $300m investment that gave Alabama a big credibility boost. Honda and Hyundai plants followed and the state now has over 300 car-related companies. In 2006 Alabama won a Golden Shovel award from Area Development magazine, and this June it got a silver. Continued... (http://www.economist.com/world/unitedstates/displaystory.cfm?story_id=14140365)

[Scottybo]

Nice article and a good read. Though, we all knew it all already; but the national exposure is still great.

[pkp]

http://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs013/1101527825688/img/455.jpg?a=1102626543574

That looks pretty good to me - not all vacant lots need (or should) be highrises. We have so much land within the Broad St. loop that has been leveled that block after block of 4-8 story buildings would be a great change - hell look at most European cities, DC, etc. I would really like to see future highrise activity move along Water Street and the rest of downtown be reserved for dense, low/midrise structures and even some single family - as long as it blends in and is a good use of space.

Anyone looking to move down here should do something now - there is great real estate available along Dauphin, St. Louis, Oakleigh, Church St. E, and De Tonti. I've gotten two new neighbors on my block in Oakleigh this week - and I hope the trend continues.

[Port_of_Bama]

I hope it continues as well PkP. I also agree about high rises on water and density everywhere else.

[BlessedMobile]

I heard something the other day which caused me some concern about developing the Bender land should they dissolve. My Atlantic Marine friends reminded me that there is sometime a big problem with paint overspray which drifts over to the Bender side. I think we may want to keep more of that land industrial and keep commercial development north of the cruise terminal. Don't get me wrong, I would like for Bender to survive and thrive but the practical chance of that is slim.

[SouthSky]

AMTRAK update from the P-R:

http://www.al.com/news/press-register/metro.ssf?/base/news/1249290912268590.xml&coll=3

---

Of course my favorite option is the most expensive... and projected to be the least profitable. :(

[phoenixboi08]

Walked around DT this afternoon...and noticed that there was a for sale sign in the window of the Gayfer's building. What's up with that?

Also, the courthouse annex is looking pretty good. Although, I wish they had used white brick and more ornamentation and trim. I think they could have done a better job to make the building look "older"

Anyways, the area around the Hampton Inn and the Battle House is developing nice. There's a few more places that weren't open a year ago.

All in all, it was nice. Considering I hadn't been in over a year! :haha:
I gave the progress an A-, because I'm a hard grader.

[SouthSky]

A- ? haha... well, where's the minus come from? :)

---

Update on Mobile's economy from USA's Center for Real Estate Studies:

Link to pdf file (http://www.southalabama.edu/mcob/realestate/documents/mobilemarket/eco/coastaleconomyjuly2009.pdf)

[BuenaVista]

Walked around DT this afternoon...and noticed that there was a for sale sign in the window of the Gayfer's building. What's up with that?

Also, the courthouse annex is looking pretty good. Although, I wish they had used white brick and more ornamentation and trim. I think they could have done a better job to make the building look "older"

Anyways, the area around the Hampton Inn and the Battle House is developing nice. There's a few more places that weren't open a year ago.

All in all, it was nice. Considering I hadn't been in over a year! :haha:
I gave the progress an A-, because I'm a hard grader.

White Brick? Huh?

[Bogue]

I'm not a fan of the white brick either, but maybe he meant stone? I agree w/ him that I would've liked to have seen something in that particular location which "felt" older & fit the location better.

What IS up w/ the Gayfers building?

[BuenaVista]

I'm not a fan of the white brick either, but maybe he meant stone? I agree w/ him that I would've liked to have seen something in that particular location which "felt" older & fit the location better.

What IS up w/ the Gayfers building?


The one thing the new courthouse annex has going for it is the tradition since the 1830's of tearing them down on a pretty regular basis- I believe this is the fifth or sixth one on the site, so all we have to do is bide our time and it will soon be gone!

[phoenixboi08]

I'm not a fan of the white brick either, but maybe he meant stone? I agree w/ him that I would've liked to have seen something in that particular location which "felt" older & fit the location better.

What IS up w/ the Gayfers building?

lol! Yes, that's what I meant! lol...sorry. Was trying to get everything out at once.
Basically, I would have liked to see something that could have blended in better with the other historic buildings downtown (the Exploreum being the most obvious...)

http://wordpress.keystone.edu/cdc/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/montgomery-court-house.jpg

This is what I was imagining...

A- ? haha... well, where's the minus come from? :)

---

Update on Mobile's economy from USA's Center for Real Estate Studies:

Link to pdf file (http://www.southalabama.edu/mcob/realestate/documents/mobilemarket/eco/coastaleconomyjuly2009.pdf)

Of course! Always room for improvement. But I was very happy. A lot is happening on Dauphin. I actually saw a pretty good number of people out and about. Quite a few families...it was about 2:00-3:00 too, so it wasn't just the lunch crowd. n_n

[Alxx611]

Apparantly horse and carriage rides will be coming to downtown soon. I talked to a man today who has it approved by the city, and just needs the license now. He has the horses, the carriages, and land for holding the animals (outside of downtown) but any other details he has not reached yet, as far as routes, costs, etc. He also said one of the carriages can hold 8 people, and the other can be for couples/weddings.



other than that, the Courthouse Annex:


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/DSC01989.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/DSC01990.jpg

[Alabadrock]

Yea, that courthouse doesn't look so great. I mean, it doesn't look TERRIBLE, but it definitely could have been designed better.

[SouthSky]

It's better than Government Plaza... :)

[WEMO]

At least it is infill.

Most of you do not know, but I am a Mortgage Lender and Rates should be dropping tomorrow. If you need help PM me and I will be glad to share information with you. This is on Commercial as well.

[BuenaVista]

[QUOTE=Alxx611;4391377]Apparantly horse and carriage rides will be coming to downtown soon. I talked to a man today who has it approved by the city, and just needs the license now. He has the horses, the carriages, and land for holding the animals (outside of downtown) but any other details he has not reached yet, as far as routes, costs, etc. He also said one of the carriages can hold 8 people, and the other can be for couples/weddings.



other than that, the Courthouse Annex:


Poor Dr. Levert's office- such a wonderful charming, building is completely overwhelmed by that bland edifice behind it. Maybe they will plant live oaks along Government that will hide it!

[DallasTexan]

At least it is infill.

Most of you do not know, but I am a Mortgage Lender and Rates should be dropping tomorrow. If you need help PM me and I will be glad to share information with you. This is on Commercial as well.

WEMO, while I also work in mortgages (SunTrust) I am also the moderator and must do my duty - you cannot advertise on any SkyscraperPage Forum Post. Just letting you know for future reference :)

[TheMobilian]

WEMO, while I also work in mortgages (SunTrust) I am also the moderator and must do my duty - you cannot advertise on any SkyscraperPage Forum Post. Just letting you know for future reference :)

Lol Didn't you just advertise also

He didn't mention the name of his company or Bank
he offered help and to share information , but he didnt ask for pay

also isn't it true that everytime any of us talk about a company
and use its legal name, aren't we all advertising for someone

we are getting the company name out there

like lets say (SunTrust)

[NitekKetin]

Those spaces between the Levert House and the 'bland edifices' should be transformed into landscaped open-air plazas. A fountain could even accent them.

[phoenixboi08]

It just doesn't look like you "typical" courthouse I guess...you know, columns galore...white stone...the whole 9 yards...Oh well, I guess we can still look forward to the new fed. courthouse.
I do like the way that they kind of incorporated that older building into the new one (so to speak).

[Bogue]

Don't think they were able to do anything w/ that building. It's an interesting little building, though.

Anything moved into that building across the street from it?

It doesn't appear as though there will be much room for trees, unfortunately. Maybe it's just the angle, but I hope they plant a row of live oaks there as well.

[BuenaVista]

Don't think they were able to do anything w/ that building. It's an interesting little building, though.

Anything moved into that building across the street from it?

It doesn't appear as though there will be much room for trees, unfortunately. Maybe it's just the angle, but I hope they plant a row of live oaks there as well.

The little building was built adjacent to the Levert House and served as an office for Dr. Levert. In later years the house was owned by Dr. Acker who also used the building as his office. His daughter was Marian Acker MacPherson, noted Mobile artisti who continued to live in the house and use the office building as her studio until the County condemned the property in 1965 for the courthouse annex. The new building will not be the "Courthouse"- Government Plaza is the courthouse- this is just an larger 'annex" These are photographs from HABS of the house as it was originally, after it was victorinized and also of the office:


http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/ampage?collId=hhphoto&fileName=al/al0500/al0500/photos/browse.db&action=browse&recNum=0&title2=Madame%20LeVert%20House%20%26%20Office,%20151%20%26%20153%20Government%20Street,%20Mobile,%20Mobile%20County,%20AL&displayType=1&itemLink=r?ammem/hh:@FIELD(DOCID+@BAND(@lit(AL0500)))

The Mobile Bar Association will move back into the building once construction is completed on the Annex

[BuenaVista]

The little building was built adjacent to the Levert House and served as an office for Dr. Levert. In later years the house was owned by Dr. Acker who also used the building as his office. His daughter was Marian Acker MacPherson, noted Mobile artisti who continued to live in the house and use the office building as her studio until the County condemned the property in 1965 for the courthouse annex. The new building will not be the "Courthouse"- Government Plaza is the courthouse- this is just an larger 'annex" These are photographs from HABS of the house as it was originally, after it was victorinized and also of the office:


http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/ampage?collId=hhphoto&fileName=al/al0500/al0500/photos/browse.db&action=browse&recNum=0&title2=Madame%20LeVert%20House%20%26%20Office,%20151%20%26%20153%20Government%20Street,%20Mobile,%20Mobile%20County,%20AL&displayType=1&itemLink=r?ammem/hh:@FIELD(DOCID+@BAND(@lit(AL0500)))

The Mobile Bar Association will move back into the building once construction is completed on the Annex


The Levert Office/ Bar Association building dates from the early 1850's

[jmbreland]

Ahoy there, guys! I'm back after a long hiatus. I've moved to Gainesville, FL, to attend UF there but my heart's still in old Mobile in sweet home Alabama. I've taken some time to get up-to-speed on this forum and now I'm ready for posting.

I wish the courthouse annex's architecture is more in harmony with the courthouse itself. The different architectures of the Government Plaza, the Levert house, and the new courthouse annex seem to clash badly. It's not settling well with me. :( ... What I've got in mind for the annex is a much more modern design with a lot of glass and metal "gridding" similar to RSA Tower's design (I apologize for the lack of the knowledge of architectural vocabulary). This will echo Government Plaza's design, but mind you, not its controversial weirdness, AND will help showcase the Levert house by contrast. The Levert house seems "lost" with all the brick surrounding it and the house itself is built of brick. The white-stone Roman (or is it Greek?) design, with modernization, would work better, too, for similar reasons. Government Plaza has some stone facades. The annex's architecture by itself isn't too bad, really, but I think Mobile can do a lot better. Any comments, architecture experts??

Trees around the Levert house will definitely help soften the clashing architectures. Palm trees will do very nicely in the narrow spaces around the house.

[Port_of_Bama]

I think you meant Greek, but any way I agree with you about a shiny glass look. I think it would have reflected the bar building better or it could have been in white granite and resembled an an architecture simular to Barton Acadamy. So could you imagine a building simular to Barton Academy with beeming lights pointing at it at night or have the beeming lights matching the occasion?



I saw in an archive that Mobile use to have a hotel that was very grand one of the grandest in the south east during the time on Goverment Street. It had a Barton Academy type look to it very Greek, and it was a huge building I saw pictures of it before I think the city could have replicated that building, unfortunantly we lost it to fire.

[BuenaVista]

I think you meant Greek, but any way I agree with you about a shiny glass look. I think it would have reflected the bar building better or it could have been in white granite and resembled an an architecture simular to Barton Acadamy. So could you imagine a building simular to Barton Academy with beeming lights pointing at it at night or have the beeming lights matching the occasion?



I saw in an archive that Mobile use to have a hotel that was very grand one of the grandes in the south east during the time on Goverment Street. It had a Barton Academy type look to it very Greek, and tt was a huge building I saw pictures of it before I think the city could have replicated that building, unfortunantly we lost it to fire.

That was the United States Hotel, designed by the James Dakin who also designed Barton, Government Street Presbyterian , the Planters and Merchants Bank and numerous buildings in New Orleans, including the original St. Charles Hotel, Christ Church, etc. See the link below

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_H._Dakin

[SouthSky]

Mobile leads state in income growth
Link (http://www.al.com/business/press-register/index.ssf?/base/business/1249636597169960.xml&coll=3)

Journal hails Mobile County schools as best in state
Link (http://www.al.com/news/press-register/metro.ssf?/base/news/1249636554169960.xml&coll=3)

[NitekKetin]

Has anyone seen the rendering of the proposed Radisson expansion Downtown? Originally, I was expecting a carbon copy of the first tower, but this proposed tower is pretty good, too.

[SouthSky]

Has anyone seen the rendering of the proposed Radisson expansion Downtown? Originally, I was expecting a carbon copy of the first tower, but this proposed tower is pretty good, too.

Here is the rendering from the Press-Register:

18+ floors:
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e36/ellisb123/admiral_semmes_expansion.jpg

Article: Link Here (http://www.al.com/business/press-register/insider.ssf?/base/business/1249809349186700.xml&coll=3)

[phoenixboi08]

Wow! This is awesome!
...now we just need some convention center expansions/actual conventions...:tup:
Hopefully, this will spur/renew some interest in developing the land around the Civic Center...Fort Conde...and that awful pink hotel...

[Brown Duckz]

That place looks swank! :D

[DallasTexan]

Wow, with that renovation, I doubt it would stay a Radisson!

[BlessedMobile]

Here is the rendering from the Press-Register:

18+ floors:
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e36/ellisb123/admiral_semmes_expansion.jpg

Article: Link Here (http://www.al.com/business/press-register/insider.ssf?/base/business/1249809349186700.xml&coll=3)

It took me a minute to realize that this perspective is from the corner of Church and Joachim. We're looking North toward Government. Funky colors but it is just a rendering. It will look great from the interstate as well. The article was a bit confusing as it said they are "seeking investors" and then it says that the partnership includes 50 investors; I suppose the additional investors are not necessary but would be welcomed. Build'em big and high.

[SouthSky]

I wonder why they need that pedestrian bridge to Government Plaza?

Wow, with that renovation, I doubt it would stay a Radisson!

Yeah let's get a Loews! :D

---

EDIT: By the way, this is the corner for those unable to visualize:
Link (http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=30.688199,-88.0432&spn=0,359.986063&t=h&z=17&layer=c&cbll=30.688238,-88.043103&panoid=X5KFORlwKULu0DN3qmlryw&cbp=12,1.42,,0,-5.53)

[Port_of_Bama]

That pedestrian bridge doesn`t make any sense but I like it though. The colors are a little funky.

[Bayside]

That pedestrian bridge doesn`t make any sense but I like it though. The colors are a little funky.

Perhaps you would be able to walk from the county parking garage, through the hotel, and across the pedestrian bridge and into Government Plaza, without getting wet.

[phoenixboi08]

Perhaps you would be able to walk from the county parking garage, through the hotel, and across the pedestrian bridge and into Government Plaza, without getting wet.

Or maybe they're figuring some people would want to get out of that horrid building and into REAL office space :haha:

[Bogue]

I think the orange is probably supposed to be representative of brick as the rest of the hotel (in the background) is also in the same color. I think the orange was chosen over a more accurate color to highlight the new building in newsprint. Personally, I like it as I think it sort of reflects the building across the street and maybe that'll help Govt. Plaza not stick out like a sore thumb. Might be asking too much of a single building though. ;)

I think the flyway is just to connect to the parking deck. Isn't there one across the street on that side?

I agree w/ Phoenix that that pink hotel on the Causeway is hideous. Anyone heard anything about that lately? I know it's hard to sell the property b/c of insurance stuff, but you'd think that someone would've figured out something to do w/ it in all this time that it's sat empty.

[WEMO]

I think that it looks great... Can't wait...

[OCA REP]

Here is the rendering from the Press-Register:

18+ floors:
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e36/ellisb123/admiral_semmes_expansion.jpg

Article: Link Here (http://www.al.com/business/press-register/insider.ssf?/base/business/1249809349186700.xml&coll=3)

Aaaahhh..... The Admiral Semmes!

Stayed there many, many times during my career with Regions Financial Corporation when we were testing, training, piloting new branch automation software back in the day. That is a cool looking proposed addition.

[DallasTexan]

I hope it becomes a Westin :D

Branch automation? At Regions? I lol'd.

;)

[OCA REP]

I hope it becomes a Westin :D

Branch automation? At Regions? I lol'd.

;)

This was WELL before the R.I.N.O. Regions! :(

[nimsjus]

Saw this article on AL.com today. With the museum and that new Admiral Semmes addition, downtown will have two new fairly large scale infill developments that will make downtown that much better. Wish I was there to enjoy it.

Mobile planning to borrow $86 million for museum construction
Posted by Dan Murtaugh, Staff Reporter August 10, 2009 5:16 PM
MOBILE, Ala. -- Mobile Mayor Sam Jones plans to sell $86 million in bonds to refinance old debt and pay for the construction of the new maritime museum on the city's downtown waterfront.
The City Council has not been asked to vote on the bond issue, and at least one council member said she had reservations about taking out a loan in the midst of an iffy economy.
Jones had Moody's Investors Service rate the city's finances for an upcoming issue.
The financial service announced Monday that it will keep the city's rating of A1 -- the best it's been in recent history.
City spokeswoman Barbara Drummond said that rating was a relief for officials, who were concerned that the recession might affect Mobile's financial outlook.
"Moody's believes the city's financial position will remain stable over the near term, despite recent draw-downs of reserves," the report stated, "given a history of conservative budgeting, prudent fiscal management and a growing economic base."
Cities sell bonds to investors in order to raise a large pool of cash for projects. The cities then repay the investors, with interest, over several years.
About $63 million of the proposed bond issue would go to refinance a 2002 loan at a better rate, which will save the city $157,000, according to the Moody's report.
The remaining $23 million will go toward construction of GulfQuest, formerly known as the National Maritime Museum of the Gulf Coast.
Groundbreaking at the museum took place in April, and officials are hoping the attraction will open for business in spring 2011. The museum will include interactive exhibits, such as:
--Remote-controlled tugboats that can guide ships into port.
--A simulator that will allow visitors to navigate vessels through a virtual Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay.
--A hurricane simulator that will let visitors issue warnings based on changing weather information.
Any bond issue would have to be approved by the City Council.
Councilwoman Connie Hudson said Jones scheduled a meeting with her to discuss the bond issue but then canceled it. She has not heard any details.
She said she's concerned about increasing the city's debt after Jones called for across-the-board cuts in spending and a partial hiring freeze.
"When you're cutting budgets, is it a good time to borrow money?" she asked. "I can't get excited about it, let's put it that way."

[Port_of_Bama]

I think the orange is probably supposed to be representative of brick as the rest of the hotel (in the background) is also in the same color. I think the orange was chosen over a more accurate color to highlight the new building in newsprint. Personally, I like it as I think it sort of reflects the building across the street and maybe that'll help Govt. Plaza not stick out like a sore thumb. Might be asking too much of a single building though. ;)

I think the flyway is just to connect to the parking deck. Isn't there one across the street on that side?

I agree w/ Phoenix that that pink hotel on the Causeway is hideous. Anyone heard anything about that lately? I know it's hard to sell the property b/c of insurance stuff, but you'd think that someone would've figured out something to do w/ it in all this time that it's sat empty.



From that rendering it seem as if it is connected to the Plaza and the garage is on the otherside. So I assume that maybe the artist drew the flyaway on the wrong side. ;)


I believe the pink hotel can be replaced by a couple of trendy sea food restarunts.

[BlessedMobile]

This is a short aside to the Admiral Semmes topic but I wanted to mention to those of you who like Facebook and would like to see old photos of the Mobile area to become a friend of "Old Mobilian." It is not really about a person but more of a moderated forum. There are a lot of interesting comments from those who know and sometimes lived the era. Check it out. I joined about a month ago and it is one of the friends I have come to enjoy most.

[phoenixboi08]

I agree w/ Phoenix that that pink hotel on the Causeway is hideous. Anyone heard anything about that lately? I know it's hard to sell the property b/c of insurance stuff, but you'd think that someone would've figured out something to do w/ it in all this time that it's sat empty.

I did hear that the owners were considering converting them into cheap "condos," but I'm not surprised it didn't happen...More than likely, we'll either see a hotel, or condos, or maybe some office space....

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs140.snc1/5974_1083980265735_1413223230_30215589_7895194_n.jpg :( Too bad we don't still have THIS...

[BuenaVista]

From that rendering it seem as if it is connected to the Plaza and the garage is on the otherside. So I assume that maybe the artist drew the flyaway on the wrong side. ;)


I believe the pink hotel can be replaced by a couple of trendy sea food restarunts.


The proposed addition is very reminiscent of the old Motor Lodge that was
across Government Street where the large parking lot is located.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?VISuperSize&item=200235255182

[Bogue]

Great picture, Phoenix. Had not seen that one before. The old electric streetcar in the picture is a nice touch.

[pboo74]

Theres one thing that mobile city leaders need to do for the city of mobile is to come together for once an get the ball rollin onthings for the downtown as well as the city as a hole. we need a comedy club dt,an aquarium,big chain resturant like 'hooters' parking garages,amphitheater at the riverside with tables for big outdoor concerts,new arena,lots of shopping for tourists that come for crusies an people that lives an work downtown,pedestrian bridge for water street traffic is just too fast to cross,etc... please go to other cities an u see all they downtown has to offer nashville,atl,memphis,chattanooga,list goes on an on..lets get the ball rollin..

[phoenixboi08]

Great picture, Phoenix. Had not seen that one before. The old electric streetcar in the picture is a nice touch.

It was the old courthouse. I think it was designed by a German architect. You know, I've never really thought about Mobile's streetcars before. I mean, I knew they existed, but it never occurred to me to ASK about their "demise"

[WEMO]

That takes time, but I can tell you they are working on it.

[pboo74]

I really love the rendering of the admiral semmes hotel i hope it becomes a reality?

[pboo74]

I really hope by doing the study downtown last year that some of the things come to fruitation..Mobile has a lot to offer if the city just come togehter,I agree that water street really needs a skyscraper or two....

[Bayside]

[QUOTE=pboo74;4400846]Theres one thing that mobile city leaders need to do for the city of mobile is to come together for once an get the ball rollin onthings for the downtown as well as the city as a hole. we need a

comedy club you mean the city council meetings?,
an aquarium not going to happen,
big chain resturant like 'hooters' hummm
parking garages you may see one on the site of the old L&N terminal,
amphitheater at the riverside There is a small one already there that isn't used
big outdoor concerts couldn't you do this in the proposed Mardi Gras park?,
new arena don't we have the Mitchell Center?,
lots of shopping for tourists that come for crusies an people that lives an work downtown Yup,
pedestrian bridge for water street traffic is just too fast to cross, Yup

[WEMO]

Thanks for keeping the faith.....

[phoenixboi08]

I think once we start to see people flocking back to the areas around Government and Dauphin St., we'll start to see the residential "perks" erected in DT. Until then, I think most development will be infrastructure, and attractions (like the Mardi Gras Park and the Maritime Museum).

Curious, why are so many of neighborhoods around DT so empty? I see so many neglected houses around Gvmt and Dauphin St. (etc). And all of them are great houses...what happened?

[Electrical Porpoise]

Curious, why are so many of neighborhoods around DT so empty? I see so many neglected houses around Gvmt and Dauphin St. (etc). And all of them are great houses...what happened?
People moved west and a lot of the areas deteriorated, especially when downtown activity decreased.

[phoenixboi08]

People moved west and a lot of the areas deteriorated, especially when downtown activity decreased.

Yeah, but for the life of me, I don't understand how an area that was obviously once so vibrant just...died. Those are some really nice properties...

[Electrical Porpoise]

Yeah, but for the life of me, I don't understand how an area that was obviously once so vibrant just...died. Those are some really nice properties...
Its pretty sad. I love those homes. There are people like us that love those homes, but they dont offer much more than the wood they were built with. Education, crime, commute time, etc. have all gone in the wrong direction for that area. Part of the problem is there isnt a central focus area. It isnt a specific neighborhood or gated community. Its tough to change places that have homes places in random areas. A downtown resurgence wouldnt hurt.

[pboo74]

[QUOTE=pboo74;4400846]Theres one thing that mobile city leaders need to do for the city of mobile is to come together for once an get the ball rollin onthings for the downtown as well as the city as a hole. we need a

comedy club you mean the city council meetings?,
an aquarium not going to happen,
big chain resturant like 'hooters' hummm
parking garages you may see one on the site of the old L&N terminal,
amphitheater at the riverside There is a small one already there that isn't used
big outdoor concerts couldn't you do this in the proposed Mardi Gras park?,
new arena don't we have the Mitchell Center?,
lots of shopping for tourists that come for crusies an people that lives an work downtown Yup,
pedestrian bridge for water street traffic is just too fast to cross, Yup
New arena meaning downtown..Mitchell center isn't that in west mobile?

[Bogue]

The empty properties that are more architecturally interesting often are overpriced relative to their current state. When they're not there's another issue, usually... sometimes there are clouds on the property title, liens, or there's an issue with the physical structure where it can appear nice outside but be degraded inside or in its foundation. Sometimes, though, they're just held onto by idiots who don't care about the property.

Most of those empty neighborhoods are full of houses which aren't architecturally worthwhile to keep. Some would be advantageous to see bulldozed and removed. Replacing an under-sized & uninteresting '60's ranch with a replica craftsman (or similar) would be better for the long-term prospects of those neighborhoods and mesh better w/ the houses in midtown.

[Bogue]

I don't know that Mobile has shown a real need for a new arena yet. There have been numerous concerts in the area and they've almost all tanked due to low attendance. Right now the Civic Center is largely unused & is a waste of money (other than the theatre part). I wouldn't mind them planning to eventually move the Baybears, Sr. Bowl, & USAFootball into a nice multipurpose outdoor facility in Midtown/downtown in the future (like 10-15 years) b/c that would get some use most of the year. As it is, though, there's no need for such a large structure... esp. not an enclosed one.

[BuenaVista]

I did hear that the owners were considering converting them into cheap "condos," but I'm not surprised it didn't happen...More than likely, we'll either see a hotel, or condos, or maybe some office space....

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs140.snc1/5974_1083980265735_1413223230_30215589_7895194_n.jpg :( Too bad we don't still have THIS...


The architect was Rudolf Benz. The statue of Marianne and the flanking lions on the pediment to the left of the photo are now at the Musuem of Mobile. The ionic column capitals and the pediment of porch are in Mobile Bay at Arlington Point, used as rip rap. Benz also designed the Three Sister's building at Dauphin and Royal. He is buried at Magnolia Cemetery

[BuenaVista]

I think once we start to see people flocking back to the areas around Government and Dauphin St., we'll start to see the residential "perks" erected in DT. Until then, I think most development will be infrastructure, and attractions (like the Mardi Gras Park and the Maritime Museum).

Curious, why are so many of neighborhoods around DT so empty? I see so many neglected houses around Gvmt and Dauphin St. (etc). And all of them are great houses...what happened?

The entire Oakleigh Garden District Area was much like the empty neighborhoods you describe, 40 years ago. It takes courageous individuals to come in and reclaim the neighborhood, house by house.

[TheMobilian]

I think the orange is probably supposed to be representative of brick as the rest of the hotel (in the background) is also in the same color. I think the orange was chosen over a more accurate color to highlight the new building in newsprint. Personally, I like it as I think it sort of reflects the building across the street and maybe that'll help Govt. Plaza not stick out like a sore thumb. Might be asking too much of a single building though. ;)

I think the flyway is just to connect to the parking deck. Isn't there one across the street on that side?

I agree w/ Phoenix that that pink hotel on the Causeway is hideous. Anyone heard anything about that lately? I know it's hard to sell the property b/c of insurance stuff, but you'd think that someone would've figured out something to do w/ it in all this time that it's sat empty.


Actually the Pink Hotel is not part of Mobile,(wasn't sure if anyone knew that or not) its past the county line
so we would have to ask Baldwin Cnty what the deal is with that

[phoenixboi08]

Actually the Pink Hotel is not part of Mobile,(wasn't sure if anyone knew that or not) its past the county line
so we would have to ask Baldwin Cnty what the deal is with that

No, not that one. The one adjacent to the Civic Center. Behind the Holiday Inn...:haha: