Pratt Avenue streetscape project to improve safety for pedestrians, motorists

Published on February 23, 2023

City Council authorized Mayor Tommy Battle to enter into an agreement with the Alabama Department of Transportation for the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) project. The cost is estimated at $1 million, with federal funds comprising 80% and a 20% local match.

The scope is limited to 1,200 feet along Pratt Avenue between Grayson Street and Maysville Road. Specific improvements include resurfacing Pratt from Grayson to Russell streets as well as extending a landscaped median, new curb and gutter, sidewalks with accessible ramps and drainage improvements.

Kathy Martin, City Director of Engineering, said the landscaped medians and islands will provide additional traffic calming measures and make existing on-street parking more visible. They will also create safer sidewalk crossings that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

“Overall, the project will provide safety and aesthetics improvements for all modes of transportation as residents, commuters and visitors travel through this historic corridor connecting downtown Huntsville to Monte Sano State Park,” Martin said.

Design on the project is 60% complete, with work set to begin this fall, weather permitting.