The City of Huntsville is progressing with its Mill Creek redevelopment, highlighted by the formal acceptance of a $50 million Choice Neighborhood Implementation (CNI) Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Announced in July, this funding will help catalyze the $350 million investment aimed at transforming the area west of Memorial Parkway along Governors Drive into a vibrant mixed-income community.

The project, a partnership with the Huntsville Housing Authority (HHA), includes workforce housing, medical and childcare services, and retail spaces. Recent steps forward include the approval of a service agreement with Urban Strategies Inc. (USI) and a master development agreement with McCormack Baron Salazar Inc., which will oversee housing construction and management.

“These agreements are critical steps to getting the Mill Creek project closer to the start of construction,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “Together with the Huntsville Housing Authority, we are forming a talented, experienced team of experts who will help guide Mill Creek to reaching its full potential.”

USI, funded through the HUD grant, will provide services such as job placement, skills training, and childcare to support community residents and foster long-term economic stability.

USI’s involvement ensures that the project extends beyond infrastructure, focusing on enriching residents’ lives and maintaining sustainability even after the grant funding concludes in eight years.

Antonio McGinnis, Executive Director of HHA, expressed optimism.

“The Huntsville Housing Authority is excited about these next steps and the outstanding partnerships with McCormack Baron Salazar and Urban Strategies. This will be a transformative community in the heart of Huntsville,” said McGinnis.

Further details on the project and related agreements can be found in the city’s recent council presentation here.