Darden Restaurants officially broke ground Tuesday, March 18, on a new Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse in Pell City.

This project, valued at more than $6 million, is the result of a partnership between Darden Restaurants, I-20 Development, the city of Pell City, and the St. Clair County Commission. The groundbreaking ceremony was held on the development site located at the intersection of US Highway 231 and Hazelwood Drive, adjacent to the I-20 West ramp.

“This is a ‘we thing,’ not a ‘me thing,’” said Bill Ellison, President of I-20 Development, who spearheaded the project. “It’s been a total team effort, and I want to compliment the city and county for their commitment and cooperation. As long as we can keep these relationships in place, there are limitless possibilities for what comes next.”

The new restaurants are projected to generate a combined $10 million in annual sales for Pell City. Moreover, they will create numerous job opportunities for area residents and add to the city’s dining scene.

Darden Restaurants operates more than 2,100 locations worldwide. In Alabama, the company employs more than 3,300 team members across its 38 existing locations.

“It’s a tremendous feeling to know that these businesses that have so many choices on where to locate choose make their investment in our community,” said Bill Pruitt, mayor of Pell City. They recognize that this is a special place to be. We’re grateful for the work of Bill Ellison and for the County Commission’s partnership, and we’re honored to welcome Olive Garden and LongHorn into the Pell City family.”

The locations are expected to open in 2026.

“This entire project is exciting,” St. Clair County Commission Chairman Stan Batemon said. “Bill Ellison saw a vision over here, and myself and the other Commissioners are grateful for his and the City’s work in bringing these restaurants to St. Clair County.”