The Decatur City Council has voted 4–1 to partner with the Cook Museum of Natural Science on a major expansion that would nearly double the museum’s size and establish it as the state-designated North Alabama STEM Center.
Backed by a $9.5 million state appropriation during the 2025 legislative session, the project is modeled on Alabama’s earlier investment in the Tuscaloosa-based Saban Center, designated as West Alabama’s STEM hub.
The Cook Museum, which opened in June 2019, has since welcomed over 512,000 visitors and has seen annual attendance growth since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The expansion would increase the museum from 62,000 to nearly 120,000 square feet, adding STEM labs, event spaces, programming areas and new exhibition galleries.
City support would come in the form of a land swap and the construction of a new parking deck to replace roughly 300 current spaces and add capacity for an anticipated 400–500 additional vehicles. The parking structure would also benefit the adjacent Princess Theatre and serve a planned 130-room hotel from a national brand.
Supporters, including the Decatur Downtown Redevelopment Authority, the Chamber of Commerce and local tourism officials, framed the project as a “once-in-a-generation” investment. They pointed to the Tennessee Aquarium’s growth in Chattanooga as a model for how expanded attractions can drive hotel stays, dining, retail and long-term economic gains.
Tourism Director Danielle Gibson noted that visitors already contribute millions to the local economy, and the museum is one of the community’s strongest tourism assets.
“This world-class facility is more than just an attraction,” said Gibson. “It’s a cornerstone of our tourism strategy.”
But the vote came after pointed questions from some residents and council members about cost, timing and transparency. Councilman Billy Jackson, the lone “no” vote, cited uncertainty over the city’s financial share for the parking deck.
“In my mind, we’re signing a blank check. Based on that and not knowing what the cost is going to be to the city and the citizens of Decatur, I can’t support this today,” said Jackson.
Residents questioned the “vague language” in the resolution that could “quietly obligate the city to donate funds, take on infrastructure costs or commit partnerships that we can’t walk back” before there was a clear picture of the price tag. Other residents argued the plan was being rushed.
“The citizens of Decatur deserve transparency before any commitment is made that impacts our city’s budget or resources,” one community member said.
City officials said timing was critical to securing state funds and private investment, and Council President Jacob Ladner defended moving quickly.
“I was very clear before one person voted for me that we’d be aggressive in getting these types of opportunities,” said Ladner. “I think this is a really good project for our city. It would be a mistake for us to pass it over or be too slow.”
With council approval, the city will proceed with the land swap and parking deck plans, clearing the way for the museum’s expansion.
