PELHAM – After a five-month renovation, Med Center Mazda presented a more sleek and updated look to guests who attended the grand reopening event on Thursday, Oct. 17.

General manager Joe Kaye said $1.6 million were invested in completely gutting the inside and transforming the outside. For five months, the business operated out of mobile trailers that were transformed into offices. But Kaye said the renovation was worth the wait.

The facility was redesigned with customers in mind, according to Kaye. He said the dealership is equipped with more amenities that provide a premium look and feel. The dealership’s previous garage-themed look was traded in for glass windows, high-end finishes and wood flooring.

The facility now includes free Wi-Fi, two 55-inch televisions with one showing the timing of vehicle repairs, complimentary snacks and beverages and a larger waiting area that includes electrical outlets to plug in devices.

The business got rid of the bright green and orange on the outside of the building and opted for a black and white finish.

“Mazda is moving toward being a premium brand and now the look of the facility is aligning with the look of the vehicles,” Kaye said. “We just really want to provide a pleasurable experience for customers.”

Kaye said it’s because of the community’s support that the company decided to invest in a renovation. Med Center Mazda is Alabama’s largest Mazda dealer with a volume of 120-150 cars per month. The dealership employs about 60 people.

The business opened in 1988 and in 2003 moved to its current location at 80 Drivers Way in Pelham.

The theme of the grand reopening event was ‘A Night at the Symphony.’ At the event, guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvre and wine while they viewed art from local artists. Harpist Judith Hicks provided musical selections. The Shelby County Chamber was also in attendance to conduct a ribbon cutting.