Huntsville has opened Meek Greenway, adding 1.3 miles of paved trail to the city’s growing network and creating a connection between Sparkman Drive and Alabama A&M University.
City leaders celebrated the opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026. The greenway runs along the west side of Normal Branch, with its main access point and parking area near Mastin Lake Road.
Greenway honors longtime community advocate Opal Meek
The trail is named in honor of Opal Meek, a longtime community advocate and neighborhood association leader who has worked to strengthen north Huntsville.
Mayor Tommy Battle said the name recognizes Meek’s commitment to connecting neighborhoods and helping residents reach important destinations, including workplaces, schools and retail areas.
City Council member Michelle Watkins, who represents District 1, also highlighted the trail’s benefits for nearby residents and Alabama A&M students. She said the connection provides more opportunities for outdoor recreation, physical activity and access between the university and surrounding community.
Paved trail includes pedestrian crossing and parking area
Construction on the 1.3-mile greenway began in 2023. The paved trail is 12 feet wide and includes a raised pedestrian crossing and a parking area near Mastin Lake Road, where the opening ceremony took place.
The project is not yet fully complete. Construction on the final 0.35-mile segment connecting the greenway to Alabama A&M University is scheduled to begin in spring 2027. That phase will also include a new connector road.
Huntsville continues expanding its greenway network
Meek Greenway adds to Huntsville’s existing 73 miles of city-managed greenways and trails. When surrounding bikeways and trails are included, the broader network totals approximately 130 miles.
The new route adds another connection for residents and students in north Huntsville while supporting the city’s wider effort to link neighborhoods, educational institutions and community destinations through its trail system.
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