Johnson Legacy Center to include new urban park

Published on March 25, 2021

Just seven months after cutting the ribbon on the new Johnson Legacy Center (JLC) in northwest Huntsville, the City is moving forward with plans to add an urban park to the campus.

At the request of Mayor Tommy Battle, City Council approved a contract with Bostick Landscape Architects to design a new outdoor park adjacent to the JLC.

“As we start this second phase, I am excited to see, yet again, the City finding an innovative way to bring more attention to the northern region of the City,” said District 1 Council Member Devyn Keith. “This gives the district something special to be proud of. This is not just good for northwest Huntsville, this is good for all of Huntsville. Plus, it’s another step in our commitment to bring economic revitalization and investment to northwest Huntsville.”

Possible amenities at the new park could include pavilions, food truck infrastructure and programming for farmers markets. The site may also facilitate group gatherings such as reunions and church events.

“This added green space development will truly anchor all we have hoped for when it comes to the Johnson Legacy Center,” said Mayor Battle. “We want this space to be seen by all as a vital community center. The end result could make this a neighborhood where residents will want live, play, raise their families and build their homes.”

The JLC is located on the former site of the J.O. Johnson High School campus. The JLC currently offers access to indoor rock climbing, three regulation volleyball courts and two regulation futsal courts. The JLC also offers strength training equipment, group exercise classes, individual and small group training, locker rooms with sauna access and AED- and CPR-certified staff.