Huntsville has approved a $360.6 million operating budget for the coming fiscal year, pairing millions in new spending on roads, parks and public safety with another expansion of the city’s footprint into Limestone County.
The Huntsville City Council approved the balanced fiscal 2027 budget last Thursday along with two long-range capital plans. Council members also approved the annexation of 236.58 acres at LeCroix Farms, where single-family housing is planned.
The city’s $360,593,840 General Fund budget includes significant investments in infrastructure as Huntsville continues to grow, including nearly $40 million for road improvements, resurfacing and maintenance.
“I applaud the Council for their work and shared vision for what is best both for our residents and our employees,” Mayor Tommy Battle said. “We always strive to keep residents foremost in our minds as we make funding decisions.”
Among the largest transportation investments are $17.5 million for new road projects, including work on County Line Road, Edinburg Drive and Resolute Way. The city will also move forward with design work on the next phase of the Northern Bypass east of Memorial Parkway.
Another $22.3 million is designated for road resurfacing and maintenance, while $15 million will go toward multimodal transportation projects including new greenways and sidewalks.
The spending plan also includes $18 million for reinvestment corridors near Research Park, Mill Creek and downtown.
Public safety will grow under the new budget with authorization for 18 additional personnel. The city’s multi-year capital plan also provides for a new police precinct and multiple fire stations, as well as library facilities.
Parks will see $35.4 million in improvements and expansions, while the city plans continued investment in its greenway network and commercial redevelopment along Memorial Parkway.
City employees will receive a 2% cost-of-living adjustment.
The General Fund also includes nearly $14.8 million for outside agencies, with another $17 million for outside agencies coming through the city’s Lodging and Liquor Fund.
“Because of the collaboration between Council Members, the administration and our department heads, this budget provides a conscientious road map for the upcoming year,” Battle said.
More homes planned in Limestone County
The council also approved the annexation of LeCroix Farms, adding another 236.58 acres to the portion of Huntsville extending into Limestone County.
The property is south of Huntsville-Brownsferry Road and west of Greenbrier Parkway, an area that has seen substantial residential and industrial growth.
Single-family homes are planned for the newly annexed property. The annexation was introduced at the council’s Sept. 10 meeting before receiving approval Thursday.
Huntsville’s new fiscal year begins Oct. 1 and runs through Sept. 30, 2027.
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