Huntsville, AL, October 10, 2025
News Summary
The Huntsville City Council has approved a $20 million federal grant for the Skybridge project aimed at enhancing pedestrian connectivity. The skybridge will span over Memorial Parkway and Governors Drive, and is part of a larger development project along Pinhook Creek. Construction is set to begin in 2026, with the overall project cost increasing to $78 million. The initiative will improve flood management and create new park spaces in the city.
Huntsville City Council Approves $20 Million Federal Grant for Skybridge Project
The Huntsville City Council has approved a $20 million federal grant for the Skybridge project, a significant development that aims to enhance pedestrian connectivity in the city. This decision was made during the council’s meeting on October 9, 2025, with construction on the pedestrian skybridge planned to commence in 2026.
The proposed skybridge will span over Memorial Parkway and Governors Drive and is part of the larger master development project along Pinhook Creek in west Huntsville. The first phase of this broader project, which involves the widening of Pinhook Creek for flood mitigation, is expected to start later this year. The delay in the construction of the skybridge has been attributed to challenges in acquiring funding and navigating right-of-way issues, which necessitated adjustments in design.
Miguel Rosales, the principal designer and president of Rosales+, has confirmed that changes to the bridge’s location were required because some land intended for the bridge could not be acquired. In addition, City Councilman Bill Kling emphasized the ongoing extensive planning involving multiple stakeholders, including the housing authority, Huntsville Hospital, and grocery store franchises to ensure a comprehensive approach to the project.
Looking ahead, Kling has expressed optimism that components of the Pinhook Creek development could potentially begin as early as spring 2026. The overall project not only involves the Skybridge but also includes the construction of the Mill Creek mixed-income neighborhood, significantly impacting local urban planning.
Project Phases and Timeline
The Pinhook Creek development is structured into three distinct phases:
- Phase 1: This phase focuses on flood mitigation and channel restoration, including the widening of Pinhook Creek to improve water management and create new linear park space.
- Phase 2: Construction will feature pedestrian bridges over Memorial Parkway and Governors Drive, rebuilding the existing railroad bridge for enhanced flood mitigation, and connecting these structures to the medical district and public parks.
- Phase 3: The final phase aims to introduce greenways, landscaping, lighting, and amenities in the newly developed linear park along Pinhook Creek.
Despite an initial projected budget of $65 million, the estimated cost of the overall project has risen to $78 million, primarily due to an extended environmental review process and impacts from inflation. The target completion date for the entire development has been pushed back to December 31, 2028.
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s RAISE grant will specifically fund the channel improvement components essential for the project. Phase One is set to widen approximately 3,200 linear feet of Pinhook Creek, directly addressing downtown flooding issues while promoting economic development in the area.
Moreover, the development under Phase Two will include a 1,100-foot-long cable pedestrian bridge that enhances safety and accessibility for underserved regions. Additionally, plans include a new Madison County Railroad Bridge that will replace the existing structure near the Von Braun Center, aiding in flood mitigation efforts.
As part of the initiative, a 6,000-foot-long corridor for pedestrians and cyclists will be constructed, accompanied by approximately 1.2 miles of new linear park space to foster community engagement and outdoor activities.
Key Features of the Skybridge Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Federal Grant | $20 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation |
| Bridge Length | 1,100-foot-long cable pedestrian bridge |
| Overall Project Cost | Increased to $78 million |
| Construction Start Date | Skybridge in 2026, Phase One later this year |
| Project Completion Date | December 31, 2028 |
FAQ
What is the budget for the Skybridge project?
The project was previously estimated to cost $65 million but has increased to $78 million.
When is construction expected to begin?
Construction on the pedestrian skybridge is scheduled to begin in 2026.
What are the phases of the Pinhook Creek development?
The Pinhook Creek development will be constructed in three phases, involving flood mitigation, pedestrian bridges, and the enhancement of green spaces and parks.
What does the first phase of the project involve?
Phase One includes flood mitigation and channel restoration, widening Pinhook Creek, and creating new linear park space.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Huntsville City Council Approves Funding for Skybridge Project
Huntsville City Council to Vote on $20 Million Grant for Pinhook Creek-Skybridge Project
Huntsville Approves Greenway Trail Projects and Bridge Replacement
Municipal Elections Scheduled in North Alabama
Huntsville Residents Move into New $50 Million Apartment Complex
Huntsville City Council Prioritizes Road Resurfacing and Infrastructure Development
Trestle Bridge Collapse in Huntsville Raises Safety Concerns
Huntsville Begins Construction on Mill Creek Neighborhood Initiative
Huntsville Welcomes New University of North Alabama Satellite Location
Huntsville Unveils North Huntsville Greenway and Skybridge Plans
Additional Resources
- Rocket City Now
- Wikipedia: Pedestrian Bridge
- WHNT News
- Google Search: Huntsville Skybridge Project
- WAFF 48 News
- Google Scholar: Huntsville Skybridge Project
- AL.com
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Huntsville Alabama
- Axios
- Google News: Huntsville Skybridge Project
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
