Tourism Flourishes as Campground and Duck Boats Draw Visitors to Gadsden

The Gadsden City Council meeting held on May 1, 2025, focused on several community initiatives and updates, highlighting the city's ongoing efforts to enhance local quality of life and address infrastructure challenges.

The meeting began with a discussion on the success of the local campground, which has attracted visitors from across the United States, including Alaska and the Northeast. The Mayor praised the campground's management and noted its positive impact on local tourism and spending. A recent barbecue cook-off event was mentioned, with plans for improvements based on feedback received.

Attention then shifted to the popular duck boats on the Coosa River, which have been consistently rented and are expected to pay for themselves within two years. The Mayor emphasized the recreational value these boats bring to the community, alongside the availability of self-rental kayaks.

The Mayor also highlighted the success of the First Friday events, which have seen increased attendance. A new safety measure was introduced, requiring vehicles to remain parked until 8 PM to ensure pedestrian safety during the events.

The Gas and State Sports Park was another focal point, with the Mayor acknowledging ongoing parking issues due to delays in completing a covered bridge that connects to a new parking lot. Collaboration with Gadsden State is underway to expedite this project, which is crucial for accommodating the growing number of sports tournaments held at the park.

Lastly, the Mayor provided an update on road improvements, specifically on South Sixth Street, where a paving crew is addressing underlying issues to ensure long-lasting repairs. The Mayor expressed satisfaction with the progress and emphasized the importance of doing the job correctly to avoid future problems.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored Gadsden City's commitment to enhancing community amenities and addressing infrastructure needs, with several initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.