Montgomery, Alabama
Montgomery Whitewater Park
The area around Montgomery and neighboring cities are known as the River Region because of the confluence of the Coosa and Tallapoosa Rivers into the Alabama River. The rivers have been important routes for trade, commerce and recreation for centuries and the tradition will continue with a new Whitewater Park in downtown Montgomery. The City of Montgomery is constructing an Olympic standards, recirculating white water park and entertainment venue dubbed “Project Catalyst” which city and county officials say will transform the area economy and draw 300,000 visitors to the River Region annually.
“This development has the capacity to serve as a catalyst for economic growth along the I-65 corridor,” he said. “Part of a larger vision by area leaders, the development of this important corridor is critical to serve our residents, attract travelers to stop in Montgomery and to project a positive image of our community.”
– Former Montgomery Mayor, Todd Strange
The park, planned for Maxwell Boulevard off Interstate 65, includes an Olympic standard recirculating whitewater course designed to appeal to the casual spectator and the passionate outdoor athlete. But ultimately, it will also be comprised of retail options, restaurants, hotels, concert venues and event facilities with walking distance of the downtown area along the Alabama River.
Keivan Deravi, president of Economic Research Services, is well known for his economic analysis expertise and has said the attraction should draw about 300,000 visitors to Montgomery each year, with ongoing operations expected to generate more than $35 million in revenue along several lines in the area. The River Region has already grown in recent decades for it’s recreational activities in the many beautiful rivers and lakes connecting cities nearby and now this new Whitewater Park will create another reason for active tourism to come to Montgomery.
