Get ready for traffic changes in downtown Huntsville: What drivers need to know
Work will take place throughout the summer.
Chloe Mitchell 
Huntsville drivers should prepare for upcoming traffic shifts in the heart of downtown. As the expansion of Big Spring Park continues at the former Huntsville City Hall site, construction crews are set to begin significant improvements on Church Street between Clinton and Williams avenues, with work scheduled to span the entirety of the summer season.
Park Enhancements and Pedestrian Safety
According to a city news release, these upgrades are designed to prioritize pedestrian safety and create a more cohesive feel for the east and west sides of Big Spring Park. The project includes the construction of new streetscape features and a dedicated crosswalk across the roadway. The ongoing expansion effort is transforming 2.4 acres of space into a vibrant greenspace, adding a multi-level terrace plaza, better ADA access, and a new community event pavilion. The entire project is slated for completion by the end of the year.
Construction Timeline
Drivers should plan accordingly for the following construction phases reported by 205focus.com:
- Tuesday, May 26: The northbound outside lane of Church Street will close for sidewalk removal and replacement, with a scheduled reopening on Tuesday, June 23.
- Tuesday, June 23: The median from Huntsville Utilities to Williams Avenue will close to allow for the installation of a tree-lined median. This work is expected to finish by Friday, July 10.
- Friday, July 10: Both northbound lanes will close. Traffic will shift to a single lane in each direction using the southbound lanes. These lanes are expected to reopen on Wednesday, July 29.
- Wednesday, July 29: The two southbound lanes will close. Traffic will transition to a single lane in each direction using the northbound lanes. Full access is expected to return on Friday, Aug. 14.
City officials are encouraging motorists to exercise extra caution when traveling through the construction zone and to utilize alternate routes whenever possible to avoid delays. You can find the original report at al.com.
