Athens State University’s ongoing transformation of Carter Hall is getting a $1 million federal boost aimed at expanding workforce development opportunities across North Alabama.
U.S. Rep. Dale Strong announced Tuesday that he secured the funding through the fiscal 2026 appropriations process to support the renovation and expansion of Carter Hall into a workforce development and multipurpose center.
“The new workforce development center at Athens State University is an investment in North Alabama’s future, helping students gain the skills and experience they need to succeed,” Strong said. “I was proud to secure $1 million in federal funding to help establish this center, connecting students with career opportunities and helping meet the growing workforce needs of our region for years to come. I’m grateful to President Wehlburg and the entire Athens State team for their work to make this possible.”
The $1 million is part of a much larger transformation already underway at Carter Hall.
Athens State’s Board of Trustees approved up to $30 million for the addition and renovation project in 2025. The university previously said approximately $22 million in state funding had been set aside for the project, with the City of Athens providing $3.9 million and the Limestone County Commission contributing $4 million.
Strong had originally requested $7.5 million in federal community project funding for the workforce development and multipurpose center. His congressional funding request described the project as a way for Athens State to help produce highly skilled workers from communities across North Alabama and support regional economic growth.
The final federal award announced Tuesday is $1 million.
Athens State President Dr. Catherine Wehlburg said the investment will extend the impact of the project beyond the university campus.
“We are deeply grateful to Congressman Dale Strong for his continued support of Athens State University and the North Alabama region,” Wehlburg said. “As a proud Athens State alumnus, Congressman Strong understands the important role our University plays in preparing students for meaningful careers and strengthening our communities.”
“The transformation of Carter Hall represents much more than the renovation of a historic campus building,” she continued. “It is an investment in people, partnerships, and the economic future of our region. This investment will create new opportunities for workforce development, education, and community partnerships while helping us meet the evolving needs of our region.”
Athens State began work on the Carter Hall project in September 2025. Plans call for 19,600 square feet of new space on the south side of the building and another 8,100 square feet on the north side. The renovated gym is expected to accommodate approximately 1,100 people, while a new multipurpose space is planned for about 700.
The university said at the groundbreaking that the project was expected to take 18 to 24 months to complete.
The federal funding is intended specifically to support capital improvements tied to the building’s future role in workforce training, community activities and partnerships with regional employers and organizations.
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