SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Huntsville, a vibrant city in Alabama, is witnessing an uptick in economic growth as the $43 million Northern Bypass project, currently under construction, has started drawing the attention of numerous commercial developers even before its completion.
Increased Interest From Commercial Developers
The Northern Bypass, considered a major infrastructural development in North Huntsville, connects the region with U.S. 231-431. The first phase of this project is set to be completed by the end of the year, and it has already started creating a buzz among commercial developers. Huntsville Urban and Economic Development Director Shane Davis discussed commercial development along the Northern Bypass at the Huntsville City Council meeting on June 13, 2024. He revealed that his office has begun receiving a rapidly increasing number of calls from interested parties.
To aid in this development, the city has enlisted Smith Gee Studios, L.L.C., to create the North Gateway Master Plan. City Councilman Devyn Keith, who represents much of the affected area, described this news as “huge.”
“We’re not just bringing in new families, but also ensuring intentional retail development, not merely filling vacancies,” Keith emphasized.
The Potential of Huntsville’s Northern Bypass
The Northern Bypass was designed primarily to improve accessibility and offer enhanced transportation benefits. Besides these functional advantages, the bypass is also predicted to bolster the city’s economic landscape by inviting vibrant commercial development.
This is expected to translate into a range of opportunities for Huntsville’s residents such as increased employment prospects, enhanced shopping and dining experiences, and a general boost in the region’s economic and social dynamism.
Davis highlighted Smith Gee Studios’ extensive experience with the city, particularly in the western corridor and downtown areas, where they have assisted in planning future land use. The current contract with Smith Gee Studios covers just under 1,000 acres, focusing mainly on U.S. 231/431 and other areas along the Northern Bypass.
According to Davis, the area is already witnessing substantial residential development. Recently, he and Mayor Tommy Battle met with TVA officials to discuss transmission lines in the region.
Notable Developments in the City
In addition to the Northern Bypass, Huntsville continues on its journey of urban development and growth. Several notable developments have occurred recently, including the expansion of the local animal shelter to manage overcrowding, the multi-million dollar Pinhook Creek project, and the Skybridge initiative, all reflecting Huntsville’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
In fact, a recent study has put Huntsville on the map as 13th in the nation for safety and affordability, making it an even more attractive destination for commercial developers and residents alike.
The city is also engaging in discussions with landowners regarding the burgeoning retail interest. Davis stated, “We want to collaborate with these landowners to develop site renderings of land use, acreage, and layouts at the intersections of U.S. 231 and Alabama 255.”
There are significant utilities, including power, sewer, and water, available east of the bypass. “Frankly, the city is running out of industrial space in this corridor,” Davis remarked, noting that both North Huntsville Industrial Park and Chase Industrial Park are nearly full.
The city aims to have marketable sites for the Huntsville-Madison County Chamber to promote in partnership with TVA. “This contract involves a lot,” Davis noted. “We’ve requested a two-phase plan, with the first phase to be completed in 30 days due to ongoing active projects. We are striving to manage and allocate space effectively.”
Some discussions with property owners involve those who live in the county and are considering annexation. They are inquiring about utility services and potential land use.
Davis also identified an area along the bypass that the city believes is ideal for a future commercial park. One of the city’s goals is to manage development activities before they reach the Huntsville Planning Commission. “While we aren’t in the real estate business, sometimes city government needs to engage to stimulate development,” Davis explained. “When we do, it’s done with clear intention.”
The Northern Bypass project has two critical deadlines. “The intersection with Memorial Parkway must be operational by the end of the year due to the commercial and retail activity. Confidence in the intersection’s functionality is crucial,” Davis said.
According to an Alabama Department of Transportation report from March to the Huntsville Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, the phase including Memorial Parkway starts at Pulaski Pike. The eastern phase of the bypass is projected to be complete by 2025.
The Northern Bypass is part of a larger loop designed to alleviate congestion on the city’s main roads. This loop includes the eastern bypass, called the Arsenal East Connector, with an estimated cost of $
“We’re finishing a corridor study for the eastern bypass (Arsenal East Connector) and will start design work next year. Transportation has been a top priority for the mayor from the start of the Restore Our Roads program,” Davis said.
Plans for a southern bypass are also in the works, but according to Mayor Tommy Battle, this will likely be the final segment of the loop.
Conclusion
As the year unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how the completion of the first phase of the Northern Bypass influences the commercial development landscape in Huntsville. With the anticipated influx of businesses and the ensuing economic activity, the bypass might very well stand as a testament to the city’s foresight and pragmatic urban planning.
