Von Braun Center expansion in the works? Sounds like the groundwork is being prepared.
By JOHN PECK
Times Staff Writer
john.peck@htimes.com
Bond plan already will pay for schools, garage and sewer
Huntsville's Von Braun Center could be in for a major expansion and face-lift if the city enlarges a borrowing plan for school and downtown improvements.
The City Council authorized Mayor Loretta Spencer to borrow up to $50 million for various city projects when the rates are most favorable on the bond market.
Mayor Loretta Spencer said VBC officials planned to meet with her administration in a week or so to press their case for an additional $10 million.
"It needs $40 million. It's an old building," said Spencer, who was on the VBC board when the facility opened in March 1975. "We need to do a lot of refurbishment and expansion. I would hope a lot will be spent to add seating to the arena."
City Finance Director Randy Taylor stressed that Thursday's borrowing authorization merely puts the city in position to lock in the additional amount while city and VBC officials agree on specific projects.
The $30 million would be spent as follows: $10 million toward construction of a new Lee High; $5 million for a service road along U.S. 72 over Chapman Mountain; $4 million for VBC renovations; $4 million for a new police and fire headquarters on Clinton Avenue just west of Memorial Parkway; $4 million for a downtown parking garage on Green Street; and $3 million for renovations to Butler.