Renovation Work Begins On The University Club As Future Plans Revealed

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Renovation work has commenced as the University of Alabama works to re-open the University Club on Queen City Avenue next spring.

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The target date for improvements to be complete is May 2024. Improvements will include the restoration and conservation of the interior, while also honoring the building’s historic external character.

“The project will restore the University Club’s historic character while creating a new, engaging educational experience that will also serve our community,” UA Vice President for Facilities and Operations Matthew Fajack said. “The new University Club will offer members and guests of the University exclusive dining and event facilities and provide space for special occasions and meetings.”

UA points out that the University Club is within walking distance of the campus and Bryant-Denny Stadium, with its continued operation going to support the university’s mission and the campus community by "providing an immersive learning experience for UA students as well as a premier dining and social establishment for faculty, staff, alumni and visitors."

The University Club will function as a working laboratory, UA says, with the goal of fostering growth for students seeking to gain hands-on event, hospitality and operational experience.

As part of a partnership with Invited, UA hopes the University Club will enable students from the university’s hospitality management program to work and learn closely with staff at the club.

Invited operates approximately 200 city, golf and stadium clubs in North America. The company is also tasked with overseeing the day-to-day operations for the University Club with broader plans to reimagine the membership venue by crafting original programming and activities best suited for faculty, staff, residents and Alabama athletics fans.

The University Club was built in 1834 by Captain James Dearing, who piloted the first steamboat from Mobile to Tuscaloosa. At one time, it was home to Arthur P. Bagby — Alabama’s governor from 1837 to 1841.

The University of Alabama purchased the property in 1944, before naming it the University Club to serve as a social club for members of the community. In functioned in that fashion until being shuttered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

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