MOBILE COUNTY, Ala. – The Semmes Senior Center community gathered Aug. 15 to honor Mobile County District 2 Commissioner Connie Hudson with the unveiling of a permanent brass plaque recognizing her leadership and commitment to seniors in the Semmes area.

The plaque, now permanently displayed at the facility, reads:

“With heartfelt gratitude in honor of Mobile County District 2 Commissioner Connie Hudson, whose vision and dedication led to the creation and success of the Semmes Senior Center. Her unwavering commitment has enriched the lives of our senior community and will benefit generations to come, leaving a lasting legacy of service and care.”

The outdoor ceremony included remarks from Semmes Senior Center representatives, followed by Hudson’s comments. Approximately 70 attendees then enjoyed refreshments and fellowship inside the center.

“This facility is a place where seniors can learn, stay active, and connect with one another,” said District 2 Mobile County Commissioner Connie Hudson. “It has been my privilege to work alongside the community to make the Semmes Senior Center a reality and to see it grow into the vibrant hub it is today.”

Hudson also gratefully acknowledged Semmes Senior Center co-directors Linda Davis and Bob Hankins, Mobile County staff, the Semmes community, all partners, and the seniors who use the facility.

Semmes Senior Center is a 6,000-square-foot facility that serves residents ages 62 and older with educational programs, recreational activities, and a welcoming community space. Averaging 1,000 member visits each month, the center is a high-usage, active day-use facility developed using Mobile County’s federal grants, District 2 funds, General funds, and community sponsorships and donations. In addition to the center, the 1.75-mile Semmes Senior Center Walking & Fitness Trail offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, with Phase 2 currently under construction to add 1.25 miles of walking paths, outdoor fitness equipment, and pickleball and shuffleboard courts.

A Mobile County Commission project spearheaded by Hudson, the center was managed by the Semmes Woman’s Club for its first decade and has been operated by the City of Semmes since 2023.

ABOUT MOBILE COUNTY COMMISSION:
Commissioners: President Merceria Ludgood (District 1), Connie Hudson (District 2), and Randall Dueitt (District 3). As the governing body for Mobile County, Alabama, the Commission is responsible for budget and infrastructure decision-making that enhances quality of life and makes Mobile County a great place to live, work, play, and visit. Mobile County Commission maintains almost 1,400 miles of roads, 160 bridges, 100 buildings, and multiple parks, and provides funding for all County operations, including the Sheriff’s Department, Metro Jail, License Commissioner, Revenue Commissioner, and Probate Judge. The Commission is integral to economic development within the region and is committed to increasing public access to water through its Parks Initiative.

ABOUT MOBILE COUNTY, ALABAMA:
Established in 1812. Population: 411,640 (Census, 2023). Size: 1,233 square miles of land (962 unincorporated) and 412 square miles of water. Logistics highlights: Alabama State Port, Intersection of I-10 and I-65, Five Class 1 railroads, Two airports. Top industry clusters: Aviation/Aerospace, Chemical, Healthcare, IT/Tech, Logistics/Distribution, Maritime, Oil & Gas; Economic Development: from 2010 to 2024, about 14,500 new jobs were created (Mobile Chamber).  Annual GDP: Third largest in Alabama, about $25 billion (bea.gov 2023).  11 Municipalities: Bayou La Batre, Chickasaw, Citronelle, Creola, Dauphin Island, Mobile (county seat), Mount Vernon, Prichard, Saraland, Satsuma, and Semmes.