Huntsville, Alabama, August 31, 2025
News Summary
Huntsville officials marked the opening of the first phase of the $43 million Northern Bypass project, which aims to improve commuting in north Alabama. The newly completed section at North Memorial Parkway is already easing traffic congestion, benefiting local families and businesses. Congressman Dale Strong secured critical federal funding to support the project, which is set to foster economic development in the region. Phases 2, 3, and 4 are planned to enhance connectivity further, with discussions ongoing about potential naming considerations for the bypass.
Huntsville officials celebrated a significant milestone in local infrastructure with the opening of the first phase of the $43 million Northern Bypass project. U.S. Representative Dale Strong and Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle joined officials to mark this occasion. This project extends State Route 255 and aims to enhance travel for residents commuting to major employers in north Alabama and southern Tennessee.
The newly opened section at the intersection of State Route 255 and North Memorial Parkway has already started to relieve traffic congestion, which has been a pressing concern for daily commuters. Urban and Economic Development Director Shane Davis highlighted the positive commuting impact of the bypass, signaling a transformation in local travel dynamics.
Congressman Strong played a key role in the project’s acceleration, securing $8.3 million in federal funding that was essential for its progress. The project stands to benefit local families by improving school commutes and enhancing connectivity for businesses in the area. Councilwoman Michelle Watkins noted the economic opportunities that will arise, especially for residents and institutions in north Huntsville, including Alabama A&M University.
Mayor Battle emphasized that a reliable transportation grid is crucial for fostering economic development. The success of phase one paves the way for the second phase, which is already approximately 55% complete and is anticipated to be finalized next year. This phase extends from Pulaski Pike to North Memorial Parkway.
Beyond the second phase, a third phase is planned to connect North Memorial Parkway to Winchester Road, with construction expected to commence after acquiring the necessary right-of-way next year. Additionally, phase four will extend from Winchester Road to the east side of U.S. 72 and is currently in the planning stage.
The Huntsville City Council is set to vote on the naming of the segment currently under construction on September 25. The Huntsville Planning Commission has suggested naming this section Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Highway, due to its link with State Route 255. However, some residents have raised concerns about the potential implications of this name change on property values and the need for address modifications. City officials have assured residents they can continue using State Route 255 as an address if the name change does not go through.
Business owner Veronica Rawls, who operates Grandmama Dear Dear’s, mentioned a decline in customer numbers during the construction phase but expressed optimism for future business recovery as the bypass project advances.
Local officials are also exploring additional funding opportunities for future projects, including enhancements to the 565-Memorial Parkway interchange and improvements on U.S. Highway 72, to further support the growing infrastructure needs of the region.
Project Timeline and Phases
- Phase 1: Opened; extends State Route 255 at North Memorial Parkway.
- Phase 2: 55% complete; extends from Pulaski Pike to North Memorial Parkway; expected completion next year.
- Phase 3: Planned extension from North Memorial Parkway to Winchester Road; construction after right-of-way acquisition next year.
- Phase 4: Planned connection from Winchester Road to the east side of U.S. 72; currently in the planning stage.
Economic Impact and Benefits
- Relieves traffic congestion.
- Improves commute for local families and businesses.
- Potential creation of new economic opportunities in north Huntsville.
Future Projects
- Exploring funding for 565-Memorial Parkway interchange.
- Improvements planned for U.S. Highway 72.
FAQ Section
What is the Northern Bypass project?
The Northern Bypass project is an extension of State Route 255 aimed at improving local traffic flow and commuting for residents in north Alabama and southern Tennessee.
What is the cost of the Northern Bypass project?
The total cost of the Northern Bypass project is $43 million.
How has the project been funded?
U.S. Congressman Dale Strong secured $8.3 million in federal funding for the project, which was crucial for its acceleration.
What are the current phases of the project?
Phase one is complete, phase two is approximately 55% complete, and plans for phases three and four are underway.
Will there be a name change for the bypass?
The Huntsville City Council will vote on whether to name the current section under construction as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Highway.
Key Features of the Northern Bypass Project
| Phase | Status | Expected Completion | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Completed | N/A | Extension at North Memorial Parkway |
| Phase 2 | 55% Complete | Next Year | Extends Pulaski Pike to North Memorial Parkway |
| Phase 3 | Planned | Next Year | Connect North Memorial Parkway to Winchester Road |
| Phase 4 | In Planning | TBD | Connect Winchester Road to east side of U.S. 72 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
ABC News Website Experiences Technical Glitches
Huntsville Holds Public Hearing on Annexation of 572 Acres
California Supreme Court Upholds Newsom’s Redistricting Plan
Huntsville Expands Retail Offerings at Bridge Street Town Centre
Senate Confirms Emil Bove Amid Controversy
Huntsville City Council Prioritizes Road Resurfacing and Infrastructure Development
California Governor Signs New Housing Laws
California Takes Action to Address Housing Shortage
TSA Provides Active-Duty Military Priority Access at Alabama Airports
US Marines Deployed in LA Amid Immigration Protests
Additional Resources
- AL.com: Huntsville’s $43 Million Northern Bypass
- Wikipedia: Northern Bypass
- Axios: Huntsville Northern Bypass
- Google Search: Huntsville Northern Bypass
- Rocket City Now: Grand Opening of Huntsville Northern Bypass
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bypass Road
- WAFF: First Phase of Northern Bypass Complete
- Google News: Northern Bypass Huntsville
- WHNT: ALDOT & Huntsville Lane Closures
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.
