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Articles by Carrie Rice
Growing a Legacy: How Huntsville’s tree planting effort is transforming the City
As Huntsville has emerged as one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities, Mayor Tommy Battle remains committed to ensuring that green space grows alongside it. For more than a decade, the Mayor’s Tree Planting initiative brought together thousands of volunteers, City employees, community organizations and environmental advocates to help grow Huntsville’s urban tree canopy.
Huntsville Animal Services Launches New “Paws in the Park” Outdoor Event Series
Published on October 26, 2026 Huntsville Animal Services (HAS), in partnership with Healthy Huntsville, is excited to announce Paws in the Park, a brand‑new series of outdoor walking events designed to bring the community together, highlight Huntsville’s park trails and give shelter dogs a relaxing break from the shelter environment.
Hop on board: Huntsville Transit offering shuttle for Billy Strings weekend
Published on October 19, 2026 Concertgoers heading to the Orion Amphitheater Oct. 23 and 24 will once again have a safe, reliable and stress-free transportation option thanks to Huntsville Transit’s special-event shuttle service running between downtown Huntsville and The Orion. The Orion Express will operate continuous trips before and after the show, both days, offering attendees a convenient alternative to parking and post-event traffic.
Huntsville Tree Commission honors visionary leader who helped shape the City’s urban forest
Published on October 13, 2026 Long before tree canopy preservation, landscaping standards and urban forestry became common priorities in communities across Alabama, Charles “Chuck” Weber was laying the foundation for Huntsville’s future. Today, the Huntsville Tree Commission recognized Weber with the Tree Hero Award, honoring his decades of leadership, advocacy and innovation in urban forestry.
Planning an event in Huntsville? Start with the City’s permit process
Planning a block party, 5K run, concert, reunion, parade or neighborhood festival in Huntsville? Chances are, you’ll need a special event permit. Huntsville’s Special Events team, led by Special Events Permit Officer Eric Enchelmayer, emphasizes that the permitting process is designed to support organizers—not slow them down. “We’re not trying to be in the denial business,” Enchelmayer said.
Tapping Into Community Spirit: Straight to Ale Team Helps Keep Huntsville Clean
Published on September 30, 2026 For the team at Straight to Ale, giving back to Huntsville isn’t just good citizenship—it’s brewed into their DNA. After 17 years rooted in The Rocket City, the popular microbrewery’s crew wanted a hands-on way to support the community that has supported them.
Arts Huntsville and the City of Huntsville announce naming of the David A. Chan Theatre at the new Sandra Moon Performing Arts Center
Published on September 22, 2026 Arts Huntsville and the City of Huntsville are proud to announce the official naming of the David A. Chan Theatre, located inside the newly transformed Sandra Moon Performing Arts Center at the Sandra Moon Community Complex. Previously the auditorium of former Grissom High School, the revitalized 611-seat venue represents a major milestone in meeting the venue needs of Huntsville’s rapidly growing local arts scene.
Huntsville Animal Services to close out Clear the Shelters Month with Star Spangled Slumber Paw-ty
Published on August 26, 2026 Huntsville Animal Services (HAS) is inviting the community to put on their finest red, white and blue pajamas and head to the shelter for its annual Slumber Paw‑ty event, a late‑night adoption celebration filled with Americana charm and fee‑waived magic. The event takes place Friday, Aug. 28, from 5–10 p.m. at HAS, 4950 Triana Blvd SW. The Slumber Paw‑ty closes out HAS’s 2026 Clear the Shelters Month campaign.
City of Huntsville honors standout landscapes at annual Beautification Awards
Published on August 20, 2026 Mayor Tommy Battle and City Council members, in conjunction with the City’s Green Team and the Huntsville Beautification Board, recognized 376 properties today at the annual Beautification Awards ceremony. “It’s a critical responsibility to protect Huntsville’s natural beauty. The individuals and organizations honored today show how creativity and care can shape a healthier, more vibrant city for everyone,” Mayor Tommy Battle said.
Civic Engagement Academy application deadline is Friday, August 21
Published on August 17, 2026 The City of Huntsville’s Office of Multicultural Affairs will be accepting applications for the fall 2026 cohort of the Civic Engagement Academy (CEA) until Friday, August 21 at 10 p.m. The CEA is a free program designed to help residents understand how local government works and how they can play an active role in shaping their community.
Huntsville Animal Services Celebrates National Clear the Shelters Month with ‘Stars, Stripes & Second Chances’
Published on July 29, 2026 Huntsville Animal Services (HAS) will celebrate National Clear the Shelters Month in August, a nationwide effort inviting residents to adopt, foster and support local animal welfare efforts. Throughout the month, HAS will host patriotic‑themed pet adoption events under its 2026 banner, “Stars, Stripes & Second Chances.” HAS will waive adoption fees on select dates and special promotions designed to help every pet find a loving home.
City of Huntsville approves engineering contract for Maple Hill Cemetery Scatter Garden
Published on July 9, 2026 As more families choose cremation over full-service traditional burials, the City is creating a peaceful garden space at Maple Hill Cemetery to say goodbye to a loved one. Plans for a scatter garden at Maple Hill moved forward following approval of a $19,080 engineering services contract with Schoel Engineering Company. The agreement includes design services, surveying and construction administration and is expected to take about one year.
Huntsville Animal Services safety event served over 300 pets and families
Published on June 18, 2026 Huntsville Animal Services’ annual Boom Proof Your Pet community safety event once again delivered big results, helping prepare pets and their owners ahead of the busy fireworks season. Hundreds of families stopped in for safety guidance, on‑site veterinary services and free pet supplies including collars, leashes, treats and pet food.
Huntsville Transit hosting operator recruitment job fair June 24
Published on June 17, 2026 Huntsville Transit will host a Driver Recruitment Job Fair and Open House on Wednesday, June 24, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Huntsville Transit Office, 500 B Church Street, First Floor Training Room. The event connects prospective candidates with opportunities to join the team as bus operators. Huntsville Transit provides safe, reliable transportation options for residents and visitors.
Animal Services ‘Boom Proof Your Pet’ event returns June 14 to Jaycee Building
Published on June 5, 2026 Fireworks season is fast approaching, and Huntsville Animal Services (HAS) will host “Boom Proof Your Pet” on Sunday, June 14 from 2–6 p.m. at the Jaycee Building in John Hunt Park, 2180 Airport Rd. The free event helps families with pets take proactive steps to prepare and protect their pets to prevent the holiday surge of scared, lost animals.
City of Huntsville shares key dates before Municipal Election on Aug. 25
Published on June 4, 2026 Candidate qualifying for the City of Huntsville Municipal Election will begin on Tuesday, June 9. The election is Tuesday, Aug. 25, for representatives from City Council and Huntsville City Board of Education in Districts 2, 3 and 4. Qualifying forms are available in the City Clerk’s office, third floor, Huntsville City Hall, 305 Fountain Circle. Some key dates for the election cycle: June 23: Candidate qualifying closes at 5 p.m. Aug. 10: last day to register to vote.
Huntsville Transit offering free Orbit rides for cyclists, May 11–17
Published on May 6, 2026 To celebrate Bus & Bike Week May 11–17, Huntsville Transit will offer free Orbit fixed‑route rides for passengers traveling with a bicycle. The annual promotion is part of Healthy Huntsville’s Bike Month, which encourages residents to explore eco‑friendly transportation options by pairing the convenience of public transit with the freedom of cycling.
Turn Your Landscape Into a Living Pantry
Published on May 1, 2026 Edible gardening, also known as foodscaping, is a trend homeowners should consider. The old idea that ornamental plants must stay separate from the vegetable garden is becoming a thing of the past. There’s no need to build new beds when you can tuck edible plants directly into your existing landscape, creating spaces that are both beautiful and productive. Foodscaping also opens the door to creative, sustainable design that makes the most of your yard’s potential.
Huntsville Animal Services to host ‘May the 4-Pawed Be With You’ adoption day May 4
Published on April 29, 2026 In the spirit of a galaxy far, far away, Huntsville Animal Services (HAS) will host “May the 4-Pawed Be With You”, an adoption promotion on Monday, May 4 at Animal Services, 4950 SW Triana Blvd. All dog and cat adoption fees will be waived on May the 4th. “Whether you’re seeking a loyal co‑pilot or a wise little creature full of personality, you just might find the pet you’re looking for,” said John Fischer, Director of Huntsville Animal Services.
Huntsville-area leaders take unified message to Washington to advance federal agenda
Published on April 24, 2026 More than 200 civic, community and business leaders from the Huntsville area spent time in Washington this week as part of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce annual Fly-in—one of the largest Chamber‑hosted trips of its kind in the country. The two‑day visit provided an important opportunity to connect with the Alabama Congressional delegation and key federal agencies while advancing the priorities outlined in the Chamber’s priorities.
Earth Day at Hays Nature Preserve returns this Saturday with family friendly fun
Published on April 15, 2026 Huntsville’s most beloved spring traditions is back. Green Team is hosting Earth Day at Hays Nature Preserve on Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., inviting residents of all ages to celebrate nature, learn something new and enjoy outdoor fun in a rustic outdoor setting.
City announces partnership with ParkZen to deliver real-time parking technology
Published on April 9, 2026 Finding a parking spot in downtown Huntsville will soon be easier. The City an agreement with ParkZen, an innovative smart-parking app that gives drivers real-time information about parking availability in City-managed garages and lots. ParkZen uses smartphone-based technology to help users quickly navigate to open spaces in City-owned parking garages and parking lots, and reduce the time and stress often associated with urban parking.
Spring into Spring: Green Team hosting Earth Month events Friday, Saturday
Published on April 9, 2026 Huntsville’s Green Team is inviting residents to spring into spring with a pair of Earth Month events designed to help the community grow a little greener. Earth Month launches tomorrow with a plant and supplies giveaway, followed by a community cleanup on Saturday. First up is the wildly popular Spring Plant & Cleanup Supplies Giveaway on Friday, April 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Jaycee Building at John Hunt Park, 2180 Airport Road.
Huntsville launches citywide Earth Month celebration with cleanups and community fun
Published on April 1, 2026 Huntsville is springing into Earth Month with a lively lineup of community cleanups, plant giveaways and family-friendly events designed to get residents outdoors and making a visible difference. All month long, Operation Green Team is inviting the community to celebrate the planet and take part in activities that help keep Huntsville clean, vibrant and beautiful.
GEOHuntsville Summit convenes geospatial, space & AI leaders, March 26
Published on March 24, 2026 The GEOHuntsville Summit returns to the Huntsville Botanical Garden on Thursday, March 26, at 9 a.m. with the 2026 theme “Rocket City Rising.” The full-day event will spotlight conversations at the intersection of geospatial, space and artificial intelligence and includes scholarships for local students. Registration is open. Lt. Gen. Richard L.
Rocket City Rising: U.S. Space Command deputy commander to keynote GEOHuntsville Summit
Published on March 10, 2026 Lt. Gen. Richard L. Zellmann, Deputy Commander, U.S. Space Command, will be a keynote speaker at the GEOHuntsville Summit on Thursday, March 26, at 9 a.m. at the Huntsville Botanical Garden. The Summit’s theme, “Rocket City Rising,” will spotlight conversations at the intersection of geospatial, space and artificial intelligence. Organizers noted the Summit will award scholarships to local students.
Stay off the blue lines: Why access aisles are part of the space
Ever noticed those bold blue aisle stripes next to accessible parking spots? They indicate where extra space for people who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids. This extra space is essential to allow wheelchair ramps and lifts to be deployed and for mobility‑device users to maneuver safely, without striking neighboring vehicles. If any portion of the aisle is blocked – even just for a minute – a ramp may not deploy, equipment can be damaged, and a person can be left stranded.
Wrangle weeds for a greener Huntsville at invasive plant removal event, March 7
Published on February 24, 2026 Huntsville’s Green Team is teaming up with the Land Trust of North Alabama and Wild Ones–North Alabama Chapter to give invasive plants the boot at a city-wide Weed Wrangle event on Saturday, March 7, from 9 a.m. to noon. The Weed Wrangle will allow participants to gain hands-on experience in identifying common invasive plants, learning proper removal techniques, and understanding how native plants help restore balance to our local environment.
Huntsville celebrates Arbor Day and commitment to urban forestry
Published on February 20, 2026 Mayor Tommy Battle, Council Member Michelle Watkins, community leaders, students and environmental advocates gathered today at the Dr. Robert Shurney Legacy Center to celebrate Arbor Day. The event – hosted by the Huntsville Tree Commission with support from the City’s Green Team – featured proclamations, poetry readings, and colorful Arbor Day posters created by James Dawson Elementary School students.
Animal Services seeking help as shelter reaches Crisis Level 4 capacity for dogs
Published on February 20, 2026 Huntsville Animal Services has reached its highest capacity level for dogs and is appealing to the community for help. The shelter is at Crisis Level 4 after receiving a large-scale intake of 77 animals from a single address – 65 of which are small to medium sized dogs. There is an immediate need to adopt and foster available dogs.
Animal Services offering free pet food and spay/neuter vouchers at "Kisses & Kibbles” event, Feb. 21
Published on February 18, 2026 Huntsville Animal Services (HAS) is spreading the love this February with its annual Kisses & Kibbles Drive-Thru Pet Food Pantry event on Saturday, Feb. 21, from 10 a.m. to noon at the HAS offices, 4950 Triana Blvd. SW. The event makes it easier for City of Huntsville residents to care for their pets. Each household can receive one free bag of dog or cat food and a voucher for a free spay or neuter procedure.
Huntsville Transit hosting bus driver recruitment open house Feb. 10
Published on February 5, 2026 Huntsville Transit will host a Driver Recruitment Open House on Tuesday, Feb. 10, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Huntsville Transit Office, 500 B Church Street, First Floor Training Room. The event connects prospective candidates with opportunities to join the team as bus operators. Huntsville Transit provides safe, reliable transportation options to residents and visitors.
Cosmo predicts early spring during Ground Dog Day event
Published on February 2, 2026 Phil may be the nation’s most famous weather prognosticator, but in the Rocket City, the forecast today belonged to a dog named Cosmo. Huntsville Animal Services (HAS) hosted its fifth annual Ground Dog Day, where Cosmo made his seasonal prediction by choosing between two treat bowls—one representing six more weeks of winter and the other an early spring.
Huntsville Transit Resumes Service Jan. 26, with Exceptions
Published on January 26, 2026 Huntsville Transit resumed normal service on all routes, Mon, Jan. 26 with the following exceptions: ·Route 6: Transit will not service Jones Valley or the Valley Bend Shopping Center, Jan. 26. All other stops on Route 6 will operate as usual until 9 p.m. ·Routes 7, 8 and 10: On Jan.
City monitoring potential wintry weather, encourages residents to be prepared
Published on January 23, 2026 The City of Huntsville is continuing to monitor winter weather conditions in coordination with the Huntsville-Madison County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) and regional partners. Warming shelters In addition to monitoring conditions, the City’s continuum of care partners will open warming centers on Saturday. Community Warming Center – The Livin’ Room (2820 Governors Drive SW): Open Saturday, Jan. 24, at 10 a.m., to Tuesday, Jan.
Huntsville approves new City dog park for Cabela Drive
Published on January 22, 2026 For dog owners everywhere, finding a free, safe place for their dogs to stretch their legs and socialize is always in demand. That search will get a little easier as the City approved an engineering design services contract with Mullins, LLC for a 2-acre dog park and parking area on Cabela Drive. Once complete, this will be the fifth City dog park. The $16,700 design contract includes site surveying, fencing, sidewalks and a small parking area with 5-10 spaces.
Huntsville Animal Services: 2025 Rewind
As Huntsville continues to grow, so does the responsibility of caring for the abandoned or surrendered animals who depend on the community for support. In 2025, Huntsville Animal Services (HAS) focused on expanding community awareness and engagement, strengthening partner organization relationships and using data-driven social media strategies to improve outcomes for adoption and fostering.
Parking & Public Transportation: 2025 Rewind
In a city that continues to grow and attract new residents, businesses and visitors, parking and public transportation play a critical role in keeping Huntsville moving. Throughout 2025, the City’s Parking and Public Transportation team focused on expanding access, reinvesting in core infrastructure and planning for the next phase of growth – all while maintaining safe, reliable and efficient services across the system.
After impactful 2025, Huntsville Landscape Management plans arboretum, veterans memorial grove in 2026
HUNTSVILLE — From green spaces and public parks to neighborhood streets and outdoor classrooms, Huntsville’s Landscape Management and Green Teams spent 2025 expanding the tree canopy, on public outreach initiatives and fostering environmental stewardship. Powered by dozens of dedicated employees and thousands of volunteer helping hands, this year’s department efforts reflect what’s possible when city teams and residents come together to care for the spaces we all share.
Landscape Management: 2025 Rewind
From green spaces and public parks to neighborhood streets and outdoor classrooms, Huntsville’s Landscape Management and Green Teams spent 2025 expanding the tree canopy, on public outreach initiatives and fostering environmental stewardship. Powered by dozens of dedicated employees and thousands of volunteer helping hands, this year’s department efforts reflect what’s possible when City teams and residents come together to care for the spaces we all share.
Huntsville Traffic Engineering’s Gingerbread House Contest builds more than holiday cheer
’Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the city, Traffic engineers were busy frosting gingerbread and sculpting fondant so pretty. With candy and icing and plans on display, They engineered sweet houses in a festive array! HUNTSVILLE — What began as a simple Traffic Engineering department team-building project five years ago has become one of the department’s most anticipated annual traditions.
Traffic Engineering’s Gingerbread House Contest Builds More Than Holiday Cheer
’Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the city, Traffic engineers were busy frosting gingerbread and sculpting fondant so pretty. With candy and icing and plans on display, They engineered sweet houses in a festive array! What began as a simple Traffic Engineering department team-building project five years ago has become one of the department’s most anticipated annual traditions.
Road to Wellness: Huntsville transit connects residents seeking mental health care
HUNTSVILLE — Addressing mental health challenges takes courage, support and access to consistent care. For many in our community, that journey begins with WellStone, north Alabama’s largest nonprofit behavioral healthcare provider. But for some clients, simply getting to and from an appointment can be a significant obstacle. Thanks to a longtime partnership with the city of Huntsville, that barrier is easier to overcome.
Road to Wellness: City transit connects residents seeking mental health care
Addressing mental health challenges takes courage, support and access to consistent care. For many in our community, that journey begins with WellStone, north Alabama’s largest nonprofit behavioral healthcare provider. But for some clients, simply getting to and from an appointment can be a significant obstacle. Thanks to a longtime partnership with the City of Huntsville, that barrier is easier to overcome.
A Day in the Life of the Paint Rock River
By Sara Alvarado, The Nature Conservancy What if one of the most biodiverse rivers in North America ran through your backyard—and its future depended on you? In Alabama, that’s reality. The Nature Conservancy (TNC) works every day to protect the lands and waters that make Alabama first in aquatic species diversity across the entire United States. As dawn breaks over the misty Paint Rock Valley, the river welcomes the new day.
Huntsville Transit to offer free bus rides Dec. 1 in celebration of Rosa Parks Day
Published on November 28, 2025 The City of Huntsville will celebrate Rosa Parks Day on Monday, Dec. 1, marking the 70th anniversary of her historic refusal to surrender her seat on a Montgomery bus. In recognition of her legacy, Huntsville Transit will offer free bus rides on all fixed-route (Orbit) and paratransit (Access) buses on Monday, Dec.
Huntsville awarded $6.1M federal grant to add six hybrid buses to transit fleet
Published on November 21, 2025 The City of Huntsville has been awarded a $6,098,667 U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grant for the purchase of six new Low or No emissions (Low-No) hybrid diesel/electric transit buses to replace buses that have reached the end of their useful life. “As Huntsville continues to grow, our transit system must grow with it.
Mayor’s Tree Planting Day returns Nov. 1
Published on October 21, 2025 Mayor Tommy Battle and Huntsville’s Green Team will host the Mayor’s Tree Planting Day at Brahan Spring Park on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 9 a.m. to noon. The annual planting event brings together community volunteers who want to help grow Huntsville’s tree canopy – one of the City’s most important natural resources. Green Team will prepare hundreds of tree planting sites and provide all the tools and supplies needed.
Petsense Adopt-a-Thon dog adoption set for Oct. 18
Published on October 16, 2025 Fall means football and homecoming, and Huntsville Animal Services (HAS) invites the community to a special homecoming “Adopt-a-Thon” pop-up event on Saturday, Oct. 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Petsense, 2290 Zierdt Road. The “Adopt-a-Thon” event is part of a national annual event organized by Petsense and is designed to help shelter animals find their fur-ever home.
Glaukos breaks ground on new research and manufacturing campus
Published on September 25, 2025 Mayor Tommy Battle joined community and industry leaders to celebrate the groundbreaking of Glaukos Corporation’s research and manufacturing campus in Cummings Research Park. Glaukos is a global ophthalmic pharmaceutical and medical technology company focused on novel therapies for the treatment of glaucoma, corneal disorders and retinal diseases.
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