MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The development of a new Statehouse in Alabama is experiencing some setbacks, yet the facility is still anticipated to be operational by the start of the 2027 legislative session.
According to reports, David Bronner, CEO of the Retirement Systems of Alabama, indicated that part of the construction project had to be re-bid, which has resulted in a delay ranging from four to six months. Bronner initially aimed for completion by 2025 but now expects that construction will likely extend into early 2026.
The Retirement Systems, which has a history of developing various office buildings both within and outside the state, is responsible for the construction of the new Statehouse which will be leased back to the Alabama Legislature. Bronner provided an update about this initiative during a recent meeting of the Employees’ Retirement System Board of Control.
He assured attendees that the project is still on target to remain within the estimated budget of $325 million. Importantly, the preliminary stages of construction have already come in under budget, particularly in terms of electrical and mechanical works. However, he noted that unforeseen issues could impact overall costs, referencing potential economic policies such as tariffs from President-elect Donald Trump as a factor to watch closely.
The site of the new Statehouse is currently being developed behind the existing building, which is slated for demolition. In its place, a park-like space will be created, and a new parking structure will be erected in a nearby lot.
Historically, lawmakers convened at the Alabama State Capitol, which is also the seat of the governor’s office. In 1985, they transitioned into the current Statehouse following renovations at the Capitol, and legislative leaders decided against returning once the Capitol was updated.
Last year, a 20-member panel known as the Alabama Legislative Council, made up of legislative heads and their appointees, gave the green light for the new Statehouse construction. Additionally, discussions arose in 2020 regarding the potential use of $200 million in federal pandemic relief for the Statehouse project, but this proposal faced significant opposition.
