It seems every week there’s something new going on at John Hunt Park. This month brings the GSC Men’s and Women’s Soccer Championships (Nov. 3-6), the AVCA Fall Collegiate Beach Volleyball Championships (Nov. 4-6) and the NCAA D1 South Regional Cross Country Championships (Nov. 11).
While it’s wonderful to see people from around the country recognize our world-class athletic facilities, Parks & Recreation remains committed to meeting a diversity of needs.
On Oct. 27, City Council approved William M. Boehme & Associates to provide architectural and engineering services for the new John Hunt Park Recreation Center at 3035 Leeman Ferry Road. The 53,000-square-foot facility will include outdoor pickleball courts, four full-size gymnasiums, a fitness center, new lighted parking lot, meeting rooms and office space. The anticipated completion date is spring 2024.
Raymond W. Jones Community Center
Meanwhile, work continues on the Raymond W. Jones Community Center, located at the site of the former National Guard Armory. The property is undergoing a $6.3 million renovation , largely funded through the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) program. The new center will offer programming for the senior population, including those with Parkinson’s disease.
Kids’ Space
The renovation of Kids’ Space is also ongoing. The infrastructure and retaining wall are nearly complete. With the weather cooperating, the project remains on track for a summer 2023 opening.
Joe Davis Stadium
Just a hop, skip and jump from Kids’ Space is Joe Davis Stadium , where crews are transforming the former home of the Huntsville Stars into a soccer venue. Opening is still set for spring 2023, signaling the start of professional soccer in Huntsville.
National Fitness Campaign Fitness Court
On Nov. 10, a ribbon-cutting is planned for Huntsville’s first National Fitness Campaign (NFC) Fitness Court . The court, with seven zones, is an outdoor bodyweight training center. Designed for ages 14 and up, users can get a free, full-body workout in just seven minutes.
Thanks to the involvement of Arts Huntsville, the project also brings public art into the space. A vinyl applique of limited-edition work by the late renowned artist Keith Haring will be featured.
Future fitness courts are planned: Legacy Park at Johnson Legacy Center and Apollo Park near The Orion Amphitheater. The installation at Legacy Park is expected to open in spring 2023, featuring the work of a local artist. Artists are competing through the Huntsville Public Art Program for the design spot.
Curious to learn more about John Hunt and our other parks? Visit our website to see what all we have to offer.
