CULLMAN, Ala. – Alabama Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman, this week announced that the City of Cullman is receiving a $750,000 state grant to assist with development of the Frank Research and Technology Park.
Cullman Economic Development Agency Director Dale Greer told The Tribune the City purchased 30 acres listed under the Fred Frank name to develop the research/development/business park. The property is north of Alabama Highway 69 beside the shooting range, before Alabama Highway 157.
Gudger’s office said Gudger worked collaboratively with city council members, local officials and area economic developers to obtain the grant.
“With its proximity to Huntsville, Birmingham and major higher learning institutions, Cullman is poised to attract new technology and research industries along with the 21st century jobs they provide,” Gudger said. “Since joining the State Senate, bringing new growth, development and infrastructure to smaller cities and rural portions of Alabama has been among my top priorities, and this grant offers solid evidence of what can happen when state and local officials work together.”
According to Gudger’s office, the grant is part of the Growing Alabama program, which provides communities across the state with funding to assist in site preparation for economic development and industrial projects and other needs. Roughly 27% of the grants, which were awarded by the Renewal of Alabama Commission and announced by Gov. Kay Ivey, are being given to rural portions of the state in 2025.
The Growing Alabama program is funded by private sector contributions to approved economic development organizations, and donors receive dollar-for-dollar state tax credits in return for their financial support.
Gudger recently unveiled the “Alabama Rural Roadmap Initiative” in Montgomery.
The rural road map will initially target five specific areas that currently inhibit growth and hinder the quality of life for residents in rural Alabama. The five targets for improvement include:
- Infrastructure – Modernizing utilities, broadband, industrial sites and public spaces
- Business Growth – Boosting support for small businesses, startups and access to capital
- Workforce Training – Expanding job skills programs and career education to meet labor needs
- Community and Quality of Life – Investing in the cultural and livability factors that
keep people rooted
- Health Care – Delivering sustainable strategies to close rural health gaps
Gudger’s office said he is meeting regularly with local elected officials, residents and business owners in rural regions along with recognized experts in community development, economic recruitment and other areas, and a finalized plan for achieving the targets will be presented to the Legislature in 2026.
