ATHENS — The population is booming in Limestone County and, in turn, so is business.

A part of that boom was unveiled Wednesday with a grand opening and ribbon-cutting for Phase 2 at the Shoppes at Lindsay Lane in Athens.

Leeland Ventures broke ground in July 2023 for the original retail center which is anchored by Slim Chickens and First National Bank. 

“At one time, Athens was a small suburban city on the outskirts of Huntsville until a decade ago when Huntsville’s Redstone Arsenal and high-tech industrial corridor began recruiting workers from all over the world,” said TJ Lee of Leeland Ventures. “People began overflowing into surrounding communities, and Athens was one of the beneficiaries.

“Limestone County and Athens are now one of the fastest growing communities in Alabama.” 

Related story: Limestone County named fastest growing county in Alabama in 2024

Lee commended Athens officials and staff, including the Planning Department, Mayor ’s Office and engineering, for being responsive throughout the process.

“Peter (Lowe) and I are proud to be a part of the area’s job and commercial growth, which is imperative to a growing residential market,” Lee said. “Seeing the trend, we began investing in the Athens market several years ago and with the recorded growth and our excellent location, The Shoppes at Lindsay Lane will offer much needed products and services to the people of Athens.”  

Phase 2’s space for restaurants and retailers is available for lease.