Mayor Battle Proposes New Transportation Options for Huntsville

Published on February 10, 2016

“We have said from the beginning we welcome innovative new transportation options for our citizens like those offered by Uber and Lyft,” said Mayor Battle. “After considerable research by our administration, I believe we have a path forward that makes Huntsville attractive and accessible for TNCs and provides the level of public safety for our citizens that they have come to expect.”

The City has been working closely with representatives from Uber on the revisions to the TNC ordinance and the company’s response has been positive. Administrators acknowledge that taxi companies and TNCs operate differently and the proposed ordinance changes allow for these differences while maintaining high standards for public safety.

Zipcar is Coming to Huntsville, too!
In other action items, the Council will be asked to approve a request authorizing the Mayor to lease six downtown parking spaces to Zipcar . The membership-based company allows licensed drivers to rent cars for errands.

“Zipcar represents another step in making Downtown Huntsville one of the most innovative places to live, work, play and now travel in the state and southeast,” said Chad Emerson, Executive Director of Downtown Huntsville Inc. “Our growing number of lofts, businesses, and unique spaces are a perfect fit for an innovator like Zipcar.”

Zipcar has requested an option to lease two spaces on Washington Street near the Belk-Hudson Lofts, two spaces in front of Huntsville City Hall, and two spaces at the Artisan in Twickenham Square. If Zipcar is successful downtown, the company looks to expand options around the city to include locations at Huntsville’s universities, airport, and research parks.

The Huntsville City Council will vote on the proposed items during their regularly scheduled City Council meeting on Thursday, Feb. 11, at 6 p.m. in City Hall, 308 Fountain Circle.