MAGNOLIA SPRINGS — If you have driven past Magnolia Springs lately, you may have noticed a pile of rubble along Magnolia Springs Highway.

No need to be alarmed; this destruction marks the beginning of a major transformation as the town moves forward with plans for a new Town Center.

Like much of Baldwin County, Magnolia Springs is experiencing rapid growth, and town leaders are working to make sure development reflects the community's small-town character and future vision.

The town, in partnership with The Magnolia Springs Town Center LLC, has acquired the former Wesleyan Church property at 12237 Magnolia Springs Highway. The property has been subdivided into three lots as part of a plan to create a new civic and commercial center in the heart of town.

Lot 2, which includes the large, modern sanctuary, will be renovated into a new Town Hall. Town officials said the future Town Hall will serve as a central hub for public meetings, services and civic engagement, giving residents a place to connect as the community grows.

Lots 1 and 3, closest to Rose Street and the Town Hall site respectively, are owned by The Magnolia Springs Town Center LLC. The LLC, made up of local residents, plans to develop the lots with small businesses that reflect the town's traditional atmosphere and the goals outlined in Magnolia Springs' Comprehensive Plan.

"The middle parcel, which has the large, most modern church structure, is the part that's going to be purchased by the town," Planning Commission Vice Chairman Joe Babington said during an August 2024 meeting where the subdivision was approved.

At the previous meeting Babington said Lots 1 and 3, which total approximately 1.42 and 1.5 acres, are expected to feature new restaurants, retail shops and possibly mixed-use spaces with residential units above.

"The idea and plan for (Lot 1) is to develop that into commercial lots that would be developed in accordance with basically the comprehensive plan goals that have been outlined by members of this community through the various meetings and the survey that we've had," Babington said. "The idea would be to hopefully bring in additional restaurants, retail that is small and fits in the community, maybe some shops below with residential on top, things like that that would add to the ambiance that the town wants to create in this space."

Lot 3 will be developed with similar uses, designed to enhance the small-town charm that residents said they want to preserve.

During the public comment period, residents raised concerns about property access, potential landlock issues and the presence of wetlands. Babington explained that the subdivision was based on the viability of existing structures, with only the sanctuary suitable for restoration.

"So, the idea is that those structures will have to come down to make room for better structures and better development opportunities," Babington said.

Town officials confirmed that Lot 2 will not be landlocked. Easements will be created across the LLC-owned parcels to maintain access to Magnolia Springs Highway and nearby properties. A wetland delineation conducted by TTL Inc. confirmed that no wetlands are present on the site, opening the door for flexible development and utility service expansion.

Demolition on Lot 1 began late last week, clearing the way for new businesses that town leaders hope will serve both new residents and longtime families.

For more information about the Magnolia Springs Town Center project, visit www.townofmagnoliasprings.org.