Meek Greenway now adds 1.3 new miles to Huntsville’s greenway network

The City of Huntsville has added 1.3 miles to its extensive greenway network, as city leaders cut the ribbon at Meek Greenway, a trail that runs along the west side of Normal Branch (with a main access point and parking area near Mastin Lake Road).

The greenway honors Opal Meek, a longtime community advocate and neighborhood association leader.

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Meek Greenway to connect Sparkman Drive to Alabama A&M

Construction on the 1.3-mile addition began in 2023 and connects Sparkman Drive to Alabama A&M University. The 12-foot-wide paved greenway includes a raised pedestrian crossing and parking area at Mastin Lake Road, where the grand opening on Thursday, November 5, 2026, took place.

Construction on the final 0.35-mile segment connecting the greenway to the university is slated to begin in spring 2027 and will include installation of a new connector road.

Huntsville mayor Tommy Battle said one of the reasons this particular greenway was named for Opal Meek is that she embraces the importance of connecting neighborhoods and people to destinations like work, school and retail.

“Opal Meek has dedicated her time to making north Huntsville a better place, and naming this greenway in her honor is a fitting tribute to the lasting impact she has made.”

_{Mayor Tommy Battle}

Huntsville City Council member Michelle Watkins, who represents District 1, said the Meek Greenway helps both Huntsville residents and Alabama A&M students.

“This greenway creates a valuable connection between Alabama A&M University and the surrounding community. It provides another way for residents and students to enjoy the outdoors, stay active and connect with the area around them. I’m excited to see this investment create new opportunities for the people who live, work and learn in District 1.”

_{Michelle Watkins, Huntsville City Council}

Huntsville’s greenway network includes 73 miles of existing greenways and trails managed by the city, with a broader combined total of approximately 130 miles when counting surrounding bikeways and trails.

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