"We were very pleased by the positive response to our project," said developer Melinda Edwards of Smith Lake Condominiums LLC. "In fact, we were a little overwhelmed. There were times when we could have used a lot more people to answer questions and take names of people requesting pre-construction sales packages."

The five-day event at the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center showcased hundreds of vendor booths to thousands of visitors. "This is quite an event for anyone interested in outdoor water recreation," mused Edwards. "Unfortunately, I was so busy with the Emerald Point Condo booth that I didn't have a chance to see any of the other exhibits."

Edwards said the positive feedback was gratifying, "We were aiming for an upscale condominium development for the discriminating condo buyer. This lets us know we are right on target."

Phase one of the proposed gated development will be a 54-unit, six-story structure featuring a rustic cedar-shake and Eldorado stone exterior. Units will come standard with fireplaces, granite countertops in kitchen and bathrooms, expansive terraces with sunrise view, dry storage space for a boat and a host of other features. The proposed Smith Lake condos development will also have boat docks, fishing docks, valet boat lauching and swimming pool with pavilion.

Up to three other phases are planned for the proposed $100 million condo project on the Ryans Creek arm of Smith Lake. Birmingham-based Brasfield and Gorrie will be the general contractor. Projected completion date will be 12-14 months after beginning construction.

"Interested parties should request a pre-construction sales package now," Edwards said. "Judging from the boat show, this phase will close very quickly."