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By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

PELHAM – A vacant Burger King on Pelham Parkway has been purchased by a commercial real estate firm, as a new quick-service restaurant is being built on the property.

Oldacre McDonald has acquired the vacant Burger King with plans to convert the space into another restaurant- the branding of which has yet to be identified.

Oldacre McDonald is a company that specializes in the construction of shopping centers, restaurants and office spaces. The organization constructed the Tiger Town complex in Opelika, which remains one of the most popular shopping destinations in the city.

Michael Simon, the economic development director for the city of Pelham, explained why the move to buy the property was made.

“This project fits into Pelham’s comprehensive plan, called Plan Pelham, under Chapter 6, Goal No. 2,” Simon explained. “We are very happy that a developer of this quality and experience has taken ownership of the property.”

That portion of the comprehensive plan is focused on economic development with goal of utilizing a variety of incentive programs and development tools to encourage investment along commercial corridors with U.S. 31 being the primary corridor for the city.

The goal was to improve deteriorated/dilapidated properties, vacant land and unoccupied properties by focusing on the aesthetic appearance of U.S. 31.

Utilizing district overlay and a facade program to revitalize and partner with developers who share the same vision as the city for future growth along the busy highway.

Simon added how the city of Pelham fits into the development.

“As of today, the city’s role is to assist the owner by providing updates on capital projects, activities and other developments that would attract a tenant,” Simon said.

Those interested in keeping up to date with the city of Pelham may visit its official website at Pelhamalabama.gov.