Huntsville receives new federal grant to study transportation needs

The City of Huntsville will be able to look into more mass transit solutions with a new grant received from the Federal Transit Authority. The $850,000 grant is part of a pilot program for land-use study along a potential bus rapid transit (BRT) corridor.

Here’s what we know:

Researching transportation needs in Huntsville

The City of Huntsville will work closely with stakeholders in the following areas along University Drive with the greatest potential for Transit-Oriented Development:

Northwoods
University of Alabama in Huntsville
MidCity

The study will explore unique prospects for residential and mixed-use growth catering to essential workers, students and families.

“This grant highlights our commitment to innovative housing and transportation solutions. If implemented, bus rapid transit has the potential to transform our transportation landscape, providing residents with enhanced mobility options while promoting economic vitality and environmental sustainability.”
Mayor Tommy Battle

The TOD study will review an array of policies tailored to supporting diverse housing options. The study is slated to commence this summer, culminating in a comprehensive report by mid-2025.

Huntsville was one of 20 communities in 16 states to have received FTA funding as part of a pilot program for the TOD planning grant.

Awarded annually, the initiative offers funding to facilitate the seamless integration of land use and transportation planning alongside the development of new high-capacity transit projects. The project is 100% federally funded, with no local or state match required.

“A city of our size needs to provide transportation options for its residents, and as we grow, transit needs to grow with us. This is the first step in building upon our existing transit network and creating a regional system.”
Quisha Bryant, Huntsville Parking and Public Transportation director

Bryant said BRT could revolutionize public transportation in Huntsville. Many major North American cities have BRT systems, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Cleveland and Jacksonville, Florida.

Want to stay in the know about what’s new and happening in and around Huntsville? Follow Hville Blast on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, and be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.