Fairhope, Ala. – The Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance (BCEDA) and the City of Fairhope are marking a pivotal moment in the future of downtown Fairhope with a ceremonial milestone celebrating the revitalization of the historic K-1 Center. Originally opened in 1925 as an elementary school, the K-1 Center has played a meaningful role in the lives of many Fairhope residents.
The event signaled the beginning of a transformational redevelopment that will preserve the building’s historic exterior while creating a permanent home for the state-of-the-art technology-business incubator — Hatch Fairhope.
“This project represents both a farewell and a bold new beginning,” said Fairhope Mayor Sherry Sullivan. “The K-1 Center holds cherished memories for generations of Fairhope residents, and while we say goodbye to its familiar walls, we look forward to the opportunities this space will bring to our community’s future.”
BCEDA secured grants from Innovate Alabama, the state’s first statewide public-private partnership dedicated to supporting entrepreneurship and innovation. The funding is part of Innovate Alabama’s mission to build the infrastructure and support systems needed to grow and retain high-potential startups across the state. The Innovate Alabama grants add to additional federal and state funding to support the City of Fairhope’s investment in the project. Construction will be led by Rogers & Willard under an approved $6.1 million renovation contract, with completion set for 2026.
“While we remember the special place this historic building has held in our community, we are thrilled to reimagine the K-1 Center and the new opportunities for growth that these renovated spaces will bring to our community, by creating a new home for entrepreneurial energy and community collaboration,” said Lee Lawson, President and CEO of BCEDA.
The construction kick-off ceremony, held on Monday, June 9, featured remarks from State Senator Greg Albritton, Fairhope Mayor Sherry Sullivan, and Fairhope Council Member Jack Burrell. Attendees, including elected officials and local business leaders, were invited to sign a symbolic wall, which was later torn down as a highlight of the ceremony.This redevelopment is being driven by the growth of Hatch Fairhope, a collaborative initiative between the City of Fairhope, Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance, and Coastal Alabama Community College. Hatch Fairhope provides co-working spaces, educational programs, and resources to support technology-based startups and foster economic growth in Baldwin County.
About BCEDA
BCEDA is a coalition of local public and private professionals, leaders, and officials dedicated to fostering economic growth and prosperity in Baldwin County. The organization is committed to promoting Baldwin County as a premier location in the U.S. for investment and continuing to raise the quality of life in the community. For more information, visit www.baldwineda.com.
