Reviewed by: Pat Byington
Dunham’s Sports selects Wetumpka for new River Region storefront
Reading time: 3 minutes
A long-vacant retail anchor space in Wetumpka is finally set to get a new tenant. National retailer Dunham’s Sports is moving into the former Food World building at Bienville Square shopping center, which is also home to businesses like Dollar General and Marion Community Bank.
City officials announced the big news Friday afternoon.
Since the defunct grocer closed nearly 20 years ago, the space has lacked a long-term tenant, with city officials noting it has sat vacant for a decade. The plaza, located at 4826 US Highway 231, underwent a major exterior facelift a few years ago in preparation for new retail development like this.
What to expect from Dunham’s Sports in Wetumpka
Dunham’s Sports is a full-line sporting goods chain offering athletic equipment, footwear, apparel and gear for hunting, fishing and camping. This will mark the chain’s first location in the River Region. Renovation and opening timelines for the Wetumpka site have not yet been announced.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dunham’s Sports to Wetumpka. As the City of Natural Beauty, Wetumpka has become a destination for both sports tourism and outdoor recreation. Families travel here from across Alabama and the Southeast for tournaments, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and hunting, and Dunham’s Sports is a natural fit that will serve both our residents and the thousands of visitors who experience everything our community has to offer.”
– Mayor Jerry Willis
Wetumpka’s retail momentum continues along Hwy. 231
According to city officials, the project represents a redevelopment investment of more than $2 million, will create 25 new jobs, and is expected to generate a significant annual economic impact for Wetumpka.
“This announcement is another example of the strategic growth taking place throughout Wetumpka. Strong partnerships and thoughtful reinvestment continue to position our community for long-term success while preserving the character that makes Wetumpka such a special place.”
– Lynn Weldon, Director of Economic Development for the City of Wetumpka.
The addition of Dunham’s Sports follows recent retail recruitment to the immediate area, including a newly opened 7Brew along with an upcoming Chick-fil-A.
Montgomery UP will follow the progress and let you know when opening details are released.
What other new stores or restaurants would you love to see open up in Wetumpka next? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook.
