The City of Andalusia on Tuesday announced two major downtown revitalization projects- a new restaurant and a remodeled theater.

Mayor Earl Johnson said the city has partnered with Big Mike’s Restaurant for a new location in the former Andala Building in downtown Andalusia.

In a separate project the O’Neal family has agreed to donate the existing theater building to the city. The city will renovate the facility, including new restrooms and concession areas, and new seats, and has a long-term lease with the current tenant, Clarke Theatre.

Representatives of both companies were on hand for the announcements.

Johnson said the projects will be let for bids as soon as the architects complete the plans, and it is hoped they will be done by late spring. RLS Design Group of Birmingham has planned the projects.

Look for more details in Wednesday’s print edition.