Planning Department seeks public input for University Drive Transit Oriented Development study

Published on June 17, 2025

The City of Huntsville’s Planning Department will host a kickoff to receive public input on a study analyzing how best to merge public transportation and development along University Drive.

The University-Medical Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Planning Study kickoff event is Tuesday, June 24, at 5:30 p.m. at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) Charger Union Theater, 4705 Holmes Ave. Following the formal presentation, a more casual gathering will be at The Camp in the MidCity District, 5909 University Drive.

“We’re excited to hear ideas and suggestions from the public as the TOD study continues to evolve into a firm strategy for this critical corridor,” Manager of Urban and Long-Range Planning Dennis Madsen said. “Public comment is vital in providing a unique perspective in unlocking or further expanding ideas. We’re eager to hear what everyone has to offer.”

TODs, conceived by the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy, are an approach to urban development designed to bringing people, services and activities together with quality public transit supported by walking and cycling conditions to facilitate shorter trips, better lifestyles and more efficient use of city resources.

The University-Medical TOD Planning Study will identify three clusters along University Drive as the primary focus for quality, transit-supportive development along University Drive focusing on three clusters: Northwoods, UAH and MidCity. The clusters present unique opportunities for residential development, including housing for essential workers, students and families.

The study will also examine a variety of affordable housing policies for different needs and conceptualize designs of station areas and first/last mile connections to visualize how TOD might appear along the corridor and link to nearby areas.