MADISON COUNTY — Something new is sprouting from the dirt at Clift Farm and, so far, it sounds delicious.
Huntsville commercial developer TJ Lee of Leeland Ventures; Clift Farm developer Joey Ceci of the Breland Companies; Madison County Commission Chairman Mac McCutheon; State Sen. Tom Butler; the Madison Chamber of Commerce; and commercial partners, including Rajesh Patel of Power Brands Hospitality Group, turned over fresh dirt in preparation for a retail center at the sprawling development.
Lee said the 10,000 square-foot space will be anchored by two North Alabama favorites – Nothing But Noodles and Cookie Fix.
Another 5,470 square feet will be available for another restaurant, a retail store or a medical practice.
Lakeside Plaza overlooks one of Clift Farm’s glistening farm lakes and will exude a southern style with the traditional charm of the original Clift family farm.
“This will be the fourth project Leeland Ventures has entered into with Breland Companies and between Clift Farm and Town Madison, we have built about $40 million worth projects in the last couple of years and created more than 250 jobs for our community,” said Lee, founder of Leeland Ventures. “That’s really where its at and we are really excited about this project as well as some new projects upcoming both here and in Athens.”
Lee also talked about how the COVID pandemic, skyrocketing prices for building materials and floundering supply chain issues may have slowed down growth for a short time, but it could not stop progress across Madison County.
“It is just amazing to me how the Huntsville area continues to grow, despite what is happening in the economy, and I pray that situation is leveling off and the revitalization and building projects we have going on, can continue,” he said.
Lee thanked all the elected officials and partners Fite Construction, Mullins Civil Engineering, and First National Bank among others.
“We appreciate so much the integrity of everyone involved who helps us reduce costs at a time when that is difficult,” said Lee. “We like to work with everyone in the community but when you find partners whom you know and trust, it is always easier.”
Ceci also welcomed the team.
“i want to welcome TJ and his construction team to our fourth project together,” he said. “His group are the kind of quality developers you want to do business with and that we want to attract to Clift Farm – people who bring in new restaurant concepts and services the residents want, and I mean that not only here at Clift Farm, but in the whole Monrovia/Harvest and Madison County region.”
McCutcheon cited the quality of life that development brings to the area.
“It is exciting anytime we see developments like this that improve quality of life for people who live in the area,” he said. “TJ, your investment and Joey, all the work that goes into a project like this – from a governmental standpoint, we work hard to make the process of inspections and other red tape issues you have to go through easier so you can quickly get to this point.
“It’s all about partnerships and I just want to say, things like this just don’t happen without good leadership, excellent minds, and forward-thinking investment.”
Butler reminisced about the number of times over several decades he has driven past Clift Farm and realized its legacy.
“I see something growing on this farm I think Mr. Clift would be very proud of,” he said. “Thank you for your investment in the Madison and Monrovia area, and all of North Alabama. This is a great blessing for the surrounding communities.
“Anytime we can help, all you have to do is pick up the phone.”
Leeland Ventures has been developing commercial and educational properties across Madison County for more than 25 years.
From Hampton Cove, Jones Valley and Redstone Gateway to Clift Farm, Lakeside Plaza aligns with the company’s dedication to improving neighborhoods with retail centers, Christian daycares, restaurants, and a wide array of other services, according to Lee.
Something new and fresh is definitely flourishing at Clift Farm.
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