Here’s what to know about the Huntsville Beltline

The City of Huntsville hopes to establish a new plan for the city — the Huntsville Beltline — that would join multiple communities within the city via an accessible walkway and green space.

The plan is in its early stages, but the vision is there.

Drafting a plan for the Huntsville Beltline

The overall goal of the project is to narrow the gap between the pedestrian access and redevelopment corridor (PARC) near downtown and the Meek Greenway near the campus of Alabama A&M University.

In essence, the plan is to connect multiple neighborhoods via a walkable and scenic greenway. In addition to transportation issues, the greenway would improve air quality and help mitigate the urban heat island effect by adding more green space.

City officials said the Huntsville Beltline will enhance Huntsville’s economy by creating development opportunities between Memorial Parkway and the greenway, like the Atlanta Beltline.

Another goal of the project is to create new alternate transportation options between downtown and Alabama A&M.

The Huntsville Beltline plan is not a new concept. Atlanta’s beltline has been a model of sorts for Huntsville City planners. In 2024, the City entered into an agreement with Atlanta-based Lord Aeck Sargent Inc. to develop a master plan for the Huntsville Beltline.

Dennis Madsen, Huntsville’s Manager of Urban & Long-Range Planning, said the beltline plan would link more than two dozen neighborhoods across the city, offering new spaces for recreation, transportation and economic growth.

“This project will blend transportation, green space and community engagement, aiming to replicate the successes seen in Atlanta. As the planning continues, we will gather input from residents and businesses, ensuring the project meets the needs and desires of the community.”

Dennis Madsen, Huntsville’s Manager of Urban & Long-Range Planning

When will this happen?

While conceptual planning has already started for the project, targeted stakeholder meetings will likely be held in late 2025. Thus far, City leaders say they have received positive feedback on the idea.

“With the city’s increasing population and demand for better infrastructure, this project will not only improve mobility but also contribute to Huntsville’s vision for future growth. As the project advances, Huntsville residents will have the chance to shape a transformative initiative that will impact our city for years to come.

Mayor Tommy Battle

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