Huntsville Envisions $400 Million Transformation: Downtown Neighborhood Makeover Set to Begin

Compiled by Speakin’ Out News

Ashleigh Walton of Urban Design Associates discusses plans for the Mill Creek development with Huntsville residents. (Oct. 18, 2023).

In a bold initiative, Huntsville’s city leaders, in collaboration with the Huntsville Housing Authority, are set to reshape the distressed Butler Terrace and Johnson Towers neighborhoods near the downtown core. The ambitious Mill Creek development, estimated to cost $400 million, aims to revitalize the area over the next decade.

Key developments include the pursuit of a significant $50 million Choice Neighborhood Initiative grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The city and the housing authority are finalizing a master plan to support the grant application, emphasizing the need for federal funds to boost the project.

Megan O’Hara of Urban Design Associates, assisting with the project, high-lighted plans for a mixed- income community with approximately 750 units. The development aims to address housing, employment,
health, and education needs, with a particular focus on creating a cohesive and vibrant neighborhood.

The centerpiece of the plan involves transforming the creek within the development into a greenway park, connecting seamlessly with Huntsville’s future “Sky Bridge” pedestrian bridge and the planned linear park along Memorial Parkway, extending down to Brahan Spring Park.

Retail spaces are also part of the vision, strategically placed at key corners, including Governors and
Seminole, and Clinton. The goal is to integrate retail and service providers along the creek greenway, creating opportunities for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and cafes.

Public engagement is a central aspect of the project, with three public meetings held to gather input from
current residents and the wider community. The Huntsville Housing Authority and city officials are actively
seeking community feedback to align the project with residents’ desires and the goals of the CNI grant.

The HUD application for the grant is due by December 11, with plans for construction to commence within a year if successful.

Residents expressed enthusiasm for the proposed changes, seeing the project as an opportunity for a safer, more vibrant community. While some structures have already been removed due to radon contamination threats, the revitalization plan involves tear-downs and phased construction to ensure residents can move into new housing promptly.

Urban Design Associates, known for their work on Huntsville’s MidCity and City Centre projects, brings experience and expertise to this transformative endeavor, reinforcing their commitment to shaping the city’s future.