1,800 new homes coming to growing area of Huntsville

North Huntsville is set for a massive residential transformation. A Phoenix-based developer, Suncrest, has unveiled plans for Harris Farms, a sprawling 1,800-unit community. The Huntsville Planning Commission recently cleared a major hurdle by approving the rezoning of more than 500 acres north of Bob Wade Lane—the Northern Bypass—and east of Mount Lebanon Road. The project now awaits final approval from the city council to be officially designated as a Planned Development.

Strategic Growth in North Huntsville

This expansive neighborhood is strategically positioned to capitalize on the region's recent commercial boom. Located northwest of the $240 million North Village Town Center—which features a Super Target and Home Depot—and east of the North Huntsville Industrial Park, the site is at the heart of rising infrastructure investments. The area will also benefit from a new $50 million Huntsville Hospital facility currently under development.

Community Features and Timeline

Suncrest representative Casey Werner, who noted the company's track record in North Carolina and middle Tennessee, described Harris Farms as a project that will thrive on the current synergy of north Huntsville. The community is planned as a diverse mix of housing, including townhomes, apartments, and single-family homes at various price points, alongside a dedicated 55-and-older living section.

The infrastructure plan boasts significant connectivity, featuring both boulevard-style and neighborhood roads, 7,300 linear feet of trails, and 140,000 linear feet of sidewalks. Residents will have access to amenities including gyms, pickleball and tennis courts, and swimming pools. Developer plans suggest a long-term buildout of 10 to 15 years, utilizing up to 10 different home builders.

Addressing Infrastructure and Education

During the planning process, District 5 Councilman John Meredith confirmed that students in the area would be zoned for Rolling Hills Elementary, McNair Middle, and Mae Jemison High School, noting that Huntsville City Schools have been involved in the planning discussions. District 1 Councilwoman Michelle Watkins, who has previously voiced concerns regarding school overcrowding and residential growth, has been consulted on the proposal. The Harris Farm land was annexed by the city last year, following successful dialogue between Watkins and Urban and Economic Development Director Shane Davis regarding school impact mitigation.

While the residential rezoning moves forward, a portion of the Harris property designated for commercial use along Bob Wade Lane remains outside the current rezoning scope.