SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
The City of Huntsville has installed warning signs to alert motorists about a hazardous curve on South Green Mountain Road. Despite these efforts, speeding remains a concern near a housing development under construction adjacent to the curve, as reported to the Huntsville Planning Commission last month.
Resident Michael Hagood, who lives on South Green Mountain Road, noted, “A lot of accidents happen there. I think the additional signage pointing out the fact that there is a curve, that’s been very helpful. However, we still have a lot of high-speed traffic coming up the mountain through those curves and definitely violates the 25 miles per hour speed limit that’s currently through there.”
Previously, another resident, Brandy Wilson, presented photos and videos of accidents at the curve during a commission meeting concerning the development. She expressed concern that without intervention, a fatal accident might occur and urged developers to consider alternative entry points for the subdivision.
The curve in question is located at the entrance of the development, formerly known as Cove at Green Mountain and now called Morningside Cove. At its January 28 meeting, the commission approved the reconfiguration of 38 lots in the development, following the approval of 55 lots in 2024. The subdivision spans 170 acres west of South Green Mountain Road and south of Knotty Walls Road.
Beyond speeding, Hagood highlighted issues with heavy vehicles: “I do realize heavy equipment has to get in there in order to work in the subdivision. But we still have a significant number of 18-wheelers, which jeopardizes people coming in the opposite direction along that curve as the road narrows as well as the fact there is a small bridge going over a creek that can only handle 15 tons. A lot of that equipment weighs more than that.”
Commission Member Kyle Collins acknowledged the ongoing discussions and inquired about potential solutions, such as speed bumps. Thomas Nunez, the city’s manager of Planning and Zoning Services, stated that his department has been continuously evaluating this section of South Green Mountain Road in relation to the development. He mentioned the possibility of increasing police presence, noting that certain trucks are prohibited in the area.
Nunez also pointed out that while the bridge and culvert are concerns, they fall outside city limits. He plans to consult with Madison County officials to explore possible actions.
Residents have also raised concerns about flooding along the road. Nunez reported that drainage improvements have been made to mitigate flooding, which previously hindered passage in certain sections. He emphasized that the city is continually assessing and upgrading sewer and other infrastructure in the area.
Diltina Development is leading the subdivision project, with Schoel Engineering also involved.
