Huntsville finalizes agreements for Mill Creek redevelopment project

HUNTSVILLE – A major west Huntsville redevelopment project is another step closer to construction following a vote by the City Council at Thursday’s meeting.

The council voted to accept a $50 million Choice Neighborhood Implementation Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. With the grant, the city will move forward on the Mill Creek redevelopment project.

The Mill Creek project is just west of Memorial Parkway along Governors Drive. It is a partnership with Huntsville Housing Authority that will invest $350 million into a mixed-income community with workforce housing, medical and childcare services and retail options.

Additional steps included an approval of a service agreement with Urban Strategies Inc., which will provide people-oriented services, and a master development agreement with McCormack Baron Salazar Inc. for housing, the city said.

“These agreements are critical steps to getting the Mill Creek project closer to the start of construction,” Mayor Tommy Battle said. “Together with the Huntsville Housing Authority, we are forming a talented, experienced team of experts who will help guide Mill Creek to reaching its full potential.”

USI is funded through the HUD grant and provides “people services” such as skills training, job placement and childcare with the objective of overcoming poverty while working with schools to provide a pathway toward success for students, the city said in a news release. USI’s role demonstrates that Mill Creek is more than just a brick-and-mortar project and is designed to enhance the lives of people in the community. USI also has a track record of sustainability after the grant money ends after eight years.

The agreement with McCormack Baron Salazar outlines its role in building and managing all housing in the development except for the 125-unit building funded by Huntsville Hospital for its employees, according to the city.

“The Huntsville Housing Authority is excited about these next steps being taken and the outstanding partnerships with McCormack Baron Salazar and Urban Strategies,” said Antonio McGinnis, executive director of HHA. “This will be a transformative community in the heart of Huntsville and these agreements will help ensure the success of Mill Creek.”