By CHRISTINE BOATWRIGHT / Staff Writer

MONTEVALLO – The deadline is approaching for restaurateurs interested in the former Alabama Coach Company building in Montevallo.

The Montevallo Development Cooperative District, which is made of representatives from the city of Montevallo, Shelby County and the University of Montevallo, previously set the new deadline for March 1 for a written statement of interest.

“We’ve already screened two initial restaurant proposals, both of which were very exciting and encouraging,” wrote MDCD chairwoman Dee Woodham in an email. “Both proposals embrace the historic nature of the building, provide and encourage linkage with the walkable promenade, and serve wonderfully to bring together both our university and small town community.

“We hope to receive several additional such proposals now that we have extended the deadline,” she added.

While the MDCD board prefers the site be used for a restaurant, the board is willing to consider other options if the alternative options meet with the board’s approval., Shelby County Planning Services Supervisor David Hunke said previously.

The complete document detailing the project can be found under the Department of Development Services link at Shelbyal.com; the University of Montevallo website, Montevallo.edu; and the city of Montevallo’s website, Cityofmontevallo.com.

Interested parties should contact David Hunke or Chris Hershey at 620-6651, dhunke@shelbyal.com or visit Shelbyal.com to see the request for proposal.