Smiths Station has grown beyond its status as an unincorporated community to emerge as one of Alabama's new municipalities in 2001. The move to incorporate will give residents and civic planners greater autonomy in attracting and controlling quality development. This former railroad town has emerged as a welcoming and attractive residential community just seven miles outside of Phenix City, providing easy access to urban amenities and lake or riverfront water-sport recreation. Newcomers will find an abundance of housing options, from well-kept older homes to an outstanding selection of new construction at affordable prices. Good schools, expanding commercial and service conveniences, close proximity to amenities across the Georgia border in Columbus, and a progressive new government are some of the highlights that attract families and retirees to Smiths Station. To keep pace with the influx of new residents, the city has expanded its recreational facilities to include a new senior center and a new park and sports complex complete with amphitheater and walking trails.