By Story by Phyllis Jones, SON Sr. Staff Writer and SON photo credits: Carla Kelsay
HUNTSVILLE, AL – – Approximately three years ago, Councilman Devyn Keith (District 1) was instrumental in developing an economic development plan, which included revitalizing old shopping plazas that graced North Memorial Parkway. The first projects completed were the Madison County Annex, HC Blake and the Lantana Park. The Dark Side Coffee Shop, which Councilman Keith is part owner, resides in the HC Blake location along with other businesses such as Betty Mae’s Soul Food Restaurant and the North Huntsville Business Association, just to name a few.
Now, next in line for revitalization is the old Builder Square plaza that’s located on the corner of North Memorial Parkway and Max Luther. Even though Builder’s Square has been gone for quite some time, it’s still used as a reference point for a lot of Huntsville natives. Councilman Keith acknowledged, “The lead tenant of this new development will be the Huntsville City School System. However, this will also be a multi-use development that the city of Huntsville has never seen before.” In addition to Huntsville City Schools’ Annie C. Merts Administrative.
Building having its new home located in this old familiar spot, space will be allotted for a grocery store, multi-family living quarters with great amenities, a hotel, Huntsville Hospital clinic annex, new retail and so much more.
According to Councilman Keith, the neighboring businesses are excited for the new development. Unlike the current month-to-month rental set up whereas businesses come and businesses go without any longevity, Councilman Keith believes the new development will be a staple in the North Huntsville community for at least the next 50 years. This will provide permanent economic investment.
Due to Covid-19, construction has been delayed for this massive project that will also include demolishing the entire parking lot. However, another “Promote the Parkway Project” further north is being planned. Council[1]man Keith shared that the parcel on the corner of Sparkman Drive and North Memorial Parkway will also be part of the revitalization. Unfortunately, details are not being shared at the moment, but the councilman guarantees that not only will the residents of North Huntsville be pleased, but that ALL of Huntsville will be proud of what will take place.
The North Huntsville Business Association has played a vital role in the local entities that will be accompanying this new location. Reginald McKenzie, the association’s President, says he is excited about the new development. “Moving a permanent entity like the school board to this location says a lot about Huntsville. It shows that Huntsville is moving to being more inclusive.” Judy Hardin, who is the North Huntsville Business Association’s Executive Director, is leading an effort to ensure diversity, equity and inclusion for all of the projects.
Revitalization is not just taking place on North Memorial Parkway. Phase 1 of Jaguar Hills, a new up and coming community development that anchors the Johnson Legacy Center (state of the art wellness center), has sold out. This is an accomplishment that both Councilman Keith and McKenzie are both proud of. The City is partnering with Stanley Construction Company, Inc. and Davidson Homes, LLC on this project. The Johnson Legacy center is formerly known as J.O. Johnson High School. It provides a variety of amenities for all ages, such as indoor rock climbing, volleyball courts, futsal courts (indoor soccer), workout gym and everything to ensure a healthy workout individually or with a group. Councilman Keith is most appreciative of the support received from his colleagues from the City, to help bring these projects to life. “I’m planting seeds and they are beginning to grow. In time, we will see more business and community developments that people are desiring,” Councilman Keith stated
