Sports complex, Pepsi facility promises economical growth
Published 1:45 pm Thursday, February 6, 2025
RV sites overlooking the lake at the Crenshaw County Sports Complex and RV Park provide a scenic camping location.
A lighted walking trail and park bench invite visitors to relax and enjoy the upcoming recreational space.
One of the three bridge crossings over the lake at the Crenshaw County Sports Complex and RV Park offers a scenic view for visitors, connecting walking trails and recreational areas.
Pepsi of Luverne anticipates that the new facility will be finished by the end of March.
Pepsi of Luverne anticipates that the new facility will be finished by the end of March.
By Haley Mitchell Godwin
Crenshaw County is on the cusp of significant economic and recreational development with two major projects well underway: the construction of a state-of-the-art sports complex and the expansion of Pepsi-Cola Bottling Co. of Luverne.
Both projects bring the potential for new jobs, increased tourism and enhanced opportunities for residents.
Sports Complex on Schedule
The Crenshaw County Sports Complex and RV Park, located just south of the Crenshaw Community Hospital, is slated for completion by the summer of 2026. The project includes a track and field area, eight girls softball/little league fields,two multipurpose fields for soccer and football, a baseball field, an administrative building as well as state of the art dressing rooms. The park will also be home to a scenic lake with multiple bridge crossings, a lighted walking trail, a modern RV park with 41 sites and more.
According to Crenshaw County Commission Chairman Charlie Sankey, the project is progressing smoothly, and costs have remained below budget thanks to the involvement of local contractors in the initial phases.
“The first two phases, which included landscaping, dirt work, underground piping, electrical and paving of parking lots and roadways, were handled by local contractors,” Sankey said. “This helped us stay under budget, which is a rare advantage in a project of this size.”
Sankey acknowledged that some residents have expressed concerns about the project’s pace.
“It may look like nothing is happening, but a lot of behind-the-scenes work is being done. Once those foundational steps are completed, the actual construction of the sports facilities will begin,” he assured.
The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) has shown keen interest in the facility, particularly for girls’ flag football and youth soccer, reflecting the growing demand for diverse athletic opportunities.
“Having a venue dedicated for soccer and girls’ flag football will prove to lead to an enormous impact on the local and regional economy,” said AHSAA Executive Director Alving Briggs.
The project’s $22 million budget is supported by a $15 million county bond, with additional funding sourced from state and local contributions including grants.
Pepsi Facility Nears Completion
Meanwhile, Pepsi-Cola Bottling Co. of Luverne is finalizing its move to a new 75,000-square-foot facility just off of U.S. Highway 331. The expansion, expected to be operational by the end of March, represents a major investment in the community, retaining 79 jobs and adding 10 more.
Chief Financial Officer Andrew Smith explained that the company had long outgrown its 40,000-square-foot downtown location.
“Within the last year and a half, our sales volume has really grown,” said Smith. “Every inch of the new facility, by design, will be much more efficient and will include all new equipment. We will also have fifteen loading docks compared to the two at the current location. This expansion is a testament to our dedication to Luverne and its people. We are all excited about the move and are looking forward to continuing to be an active part of the community.”
According to Smith, Pepsi of Luverne is continually looking for qualified candidates across all positions and applications are always being accepted at http://www.pepsiluverne.com/careers.
Pepsi President and CEO Greg Crouch reinforced the company’s deep ties to Crenshaw County.
“For over 100 years, we’ve been a family-owned business, and we plan to stay here. Our community support has been the backbone of our success,” Crouch said. “The new facility is part of our long-term commitment to growth, job creation, and giving back to the local area.”
Economic Impact and Community Growth
According to Commisioner Sankey, Crenshaw County’s economic development has lagged behind neighboring areas like Troy, Greenville and Andalusia for years. However, projects like the sports complex and Pepsi’s expansion are expected to reverse that trend by attracting more retail businesses and economic opportunities.
Sankey encouraged residents to remain engaged.
“We’ve been economically isolated for a long time,” said Sankey. “This is our chance to generate growth from within and these developments are just the beginning. With careful planning and community support, Crenshaw County is on the path to sustainable growth.”
Sankey said he encourages residents to stay informed and involved by attending commissioner and town hall meetings, stressing that as both projects continue to take shape, they represent significant steps forward in the county’s mission to improve recreation, job opportunities, and overall quality of life for its citizens.
