Meek Greenway expands Huntsville’s growing greenway network
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The City of Huntsville celebrated the latest addition to its multimodal network at a ribbon-cutting to open the Meek greenway, reaffirming the City’s commitment to investing in quality-of-life resources for residents.
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 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.
The greenway honors Opal Meek, a longtime community advocate and neighborhood association leader.
“Cutting the ribbon on this greenway is a meaningful occasion,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “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.”
Battle noted that well-planned multimodal projects connect neighborhoods and people to destinations – like work, school and retail. A philosophy Meek embraces.
“I appreciate any and all support for this area,” said Meek. “We’re going to enjoy this greenway for years to come!”
The new connection also provides an outdoor recreation amenity for the Alabama A&M University community and Huntsville residents.
“This greenway creates a valuable connection between Alabama A&M University and the surrounding community,” said District 1 Council Member Michelle Watkins. “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.”
Greenways offer opportunities for people of all ages and activity levels to enjoy Huntsville’s natural surroundings through walking, running and cycling. With each addition, the City moves closer to its vision for a connected, citywide greenway network.
“Greenway spaces do more than provide places to walk and bike. They create opportunities for residents to enjoy outdoor recreation as part of their everyday lives,” said Parks & Recreation Director James Gossett.
