City News

The Saban Center officially broke ground on Wednesday, August 6, at 10:45 a.m. The groundbreaking was followed by a celebration hosted by the Saban Center and the City of Tuscaloosa at the Tuscaloosa River Market at 11 a.m. 

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey, Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox, Ms. Terry Saban, Saban Center Director Audrey Buck and Poarch Creek Indians Tribal Chair Stephanie A. Bryan spoke during the ceremony.

"As an educator, I have always believed that when you invest in children, you're investing in the future," said Ms. Terry Saban. "The Saban Center is a dream Nick and I have had for many years and we are so proud to see this vision finally coming to life. The Tuscaloosa community and the State of Alabama means so much to our family and I can't wait to create a place where children can learn and grow." 

“From day one, a top priority of my administration has been giving every child in Alabama the tools they need to succeed,” said Governor Kay Ivey. “I’m proud to stand with the Saban family as we invest in the next generation of Alabama leaders.” 

Expected to be complete in 2027, Saban Center is an innovative STEM and the Arts campus where education, experience and innovation meet. It includes community partners Tuscaloosa Children’s Theatre and IGNITE, formerly Children's Hands-On Museum, plus public-private educational partnerships spanning the state of Alabama. Saban Center will be a hub for education training, arts participation and academic support for teachers and students and workforce preparation.

"Success rarely occurs in isolation, and today is a reflection of so many who came together to secure a brighter future for our children and community," said Mayor Walt Maddox. "The Saban Center is a first-of-its-kind hub for education; featuring immersive STEM and arts programs in a way that represents our commitment to the next generation. It is an honor to partner with the Saban family, the State of Alabama and all of the community partners who have made this project possible.”

The building will be located in the River District of Tuscaloosa in close proximity to the Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater, Parker-Haun Park and downtown. 

"Today's groundbreaking is a celebration and testament of our deep commitment to shaping the future of Tuscaloosa," said Director of Saban Center Audrey Buck. "By bringing the Saban Center to life, we are encouraging children to dream big and stay curious."

During the ceremony, the Poarch Creek Indians announced a $5 million donation to the Saban Center, further solidifying the strategic partnership announced earlier this week.  

“The Saban Center will create lasting opportunities for generations of young Alabamians and their families", said Stephanie A Bryan, Chair and CEO of the Poarch Creek Indians. "The mission of the Saban Center closely aligns with our tribe's values and hopes for the future, and we are honored to be able to contribute financially to this visionary project."

This contribution is one of the Saban Center’s largest donations to date.

“Nick and I are deeply honored to receive this generous donation from the Poarch Creek Indians,” said Ms. Terry Saban. “Their commitment and passion for shaping a brighter future for our children is truly inspiring.”