Huntsville-area construction activity totaled more than $532 million in new projects during the first quarter of 2026, driven largely by residential development, according to online permit data.
Homebuilding Leads $532M Construction Surge
Home construction dominated new starts across Madison, Limestone, and Morgan counties. Builders accounted for four of the top five contractors during the first three months of the year.
In total, officials issued 1,947 permits valued at more than $532 million since January 1. Madison County led the region with 809 permits totaling $207.5 million, followed by Huntsville with 623 permits worth $151 million.
Other activity included Decatur with $68.3 million, Athens with $60.8 million, Madison with $45.7 million, and Priceville with $3.6 million in permits.
Lennar, D.R. Horton Lead Residential Activity
Lennar Homes led all builders with 289 permits totaling $54.2 million. The company continues major work at developments including Clift Farm and communities across Madison and Limestone counties.
D.R. Horton followed closely with 198 permits totaling $27.8 million. Its projects include Greenbrier Preserve, along with additional subdivisions across Huntsville, Madison, Athens, and surrounding areas.
Davidson Homes and Woodland Homes also remained active, issuing 107 permits and 27 permits respectively, contributing tens of millions in residential construction value.
Commercial Projects and Major Developments Advance
On the commercial side, Robins & Morton led major activity with $28 million in permits. Projects include office and industrial work in Huntsville, including developments tied to Redstone Gateway and Huntsville International Airport.
Lee Builders reported $17 million in permits, including work on Calhoun Community College’s new student union. The firm continues involvement in several large civic and educational projects across the region.
Meanwhile, Fite Building Company and Valor Communities also contributed to ongoing commercial and residential expansion, reflecting continued growth across North Alabama’s construction sector.
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