Gadsden city officials this week approved a $115 million bond issue – the largest in the city’s history – to fund a slate of ambitious projects related to economic development.

The biggest is the proposed Gadsden Athletic Center (GAC).

Construction is expected to begin on the project early next year. It will include an aquatic center, 16 volleyball courts, 10 pickleball courts, eight basketball courts, four baseball/softball fields and a 1.25-mile walking track.

According to the city, a preliminary study by the Sports Facilities Companies in Tampa, Fla. estimates the project will create more than 2,400 jobs, with an economic impact of at least $190 million.

The GAC will replace the city’s aging West Meighan Sports Complex.

Other projects will include development along the Coosa River, arts and culture projects, park improvements and more.

“We’re ready to take the next step and capitalize on our financial situation by dreaming big,” Mayor Craig Ford said.

Ford is calling the slate of priorities the Gadsden RISE plan, for Reimagine, Invest, Strategic planning and Economic development.

The ultimate goal, he said, is in improving quality of life as a way to attract more business and investment. Last year, the city announced the $20 million Coosa Harbor development, which has not yet seen construction begin.

“We’ve already got some of the best natural resources in the state, and this will give people and industry even more reason to come to Gadsden,” Ford said. “We can do this without adding any new taxes or fees.”

Funding for the bond comes from dedicated revenue funds, apart from the city’s general fund or city operations’ money, officials said.