The Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation (AFAF) recently selected BL Harbert International LLC to construct the Alabama Farm Center at Alfa Centennial Park in Chilton County.

The 500-acre project is expected to break ground in spring of 2020.

Foundation Chairman Jimmy Parnell said selecting BL Harbert International is a major step toward making the Alabama Farm Center a reality.

“We look forward to working with the Harbert team to bring this project to fruition,” said Parnell, who also serves as Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance president. “Harbert is well respected and has extensive experience in managing large economic development projects. We’re convinced the Alabama Farm Center at Alfa Centennial Park will be a centerpiece for Alabama agriculture and an economic engine for the state.”

The preliminary master plan includes a 5,000-plus seat air-conditioned arena; 150,000-square-foot exhibition building with meeting rooms; 400-stall horse barn; 1,125-tie stall cattle barn; 400 recreational vehicle (RV) hookups; and other arenas and buildings.

Alfa Centennial Park will be located off Interstate 65 at Exit 212 between Alabama 145 and County Road 43.

“Our team is honored to be the construction partner in bringing such a significant project to life,” said Johnny Garlington, president of the U.S. Group of BL Harbert International.