More improvements coming to North Huntsville park

Published on August 10, 2023

A community park in North Huntsville is getting some necessary improvements. James Crawford Park on Melody Road serves several neighborhoods near Alabama A&M University. A new playground was installed earlier this year. Now, the Huntsville City Council has authorized a contract for further refurbishments.

The $598,711 agreement with Dunlap Contracting, Inc., approved during Thursday’s meeting, will allow for the demolition of the existing outdoor basketball court and the construction of a new one with specialty finishes.

“We knew the basketball court would eventually need to be replaced,” said Parks and Recreation Director James Gossett. “It’s time for an upgrade of the concrete playing surface. We’re grateful to the administration for this new court that will serve the community for decades to come.”

Another exciting addition is a lighted pavilion for the park. The contract also covers grading, hardscaping, and landscaping.

The park was named after James Crawford in 2001. Crawford, a member of the Huntsville-Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame, played football at Alabama A&M University for coach Louis Crews. He later became the first African American member of the Officials Association of the Alabama High School Athletic Association and spent decades officiating youth sports, in addition to serving as a community advocate and civic volunteer.