Huntsville’s ambitious Pedestrian Access and Redevelopment Corridor (PARC) project is moving forward, following the City Council’s approval of crucial engineering design contracts late last week.

These contracts are vital in ensuring the project meets state and federal grant requirements, setting the stage for transformative infrastructure improvements in the city.

A $1.93 million contract has been awarded to Rosales + Partners to finalize the design of a cable suspension bridge that will span Memorial Parkway. The scope of this contract includes permitting, testing, specifications, detailed planning, and peer review, all necessary steps to bring the bridge from concept to reality.

Additionally, Garver LLC secured a $999,978 contract to design improvements to the Pinhook Creek channel. Their work will encompass permitting, structural design, and the integration of hardscape and landscape features, ensuring the project harmonizes with the natural surroundings.

The PARC project is significantly bolstered by two Federal Highway Administration grants, totaling $47.3 million, and an additional $5 million from the State of Alabama. The project’s scope includes:

1.2 miles of linear park space
5,600 feet of Pinhook Creek channel excavation
3,200 feet of low-flow channel along Pinhook Creek
6,000 linear feet of greenway
Three precast pedestrian bridges over Pinhook Creek
One concrete railroad bridge replacing the existing wooden bridge adjacent to Heart of Huntsville Drive
1,400 feet of pedestrian cable suspension bridge

Construction is set to unfold over two years, divided into four phases, with the initial Pinhook Creek flood mitigation efforts expected to commence by the end of the year.

“This is an essential procedural step in the project, and we are eager to begin construction soon,” said Shane Davis, Director of Urban & Economic Development. “PARC is a transformative project that addresses the infrastructure needs of our growing city.”