Off The Record: The latest rumors and rumblings in North Alabama
Rogers to lead Space Command?
Following this week’s announcement on U.S. Space Command, a small rumor began circulating that U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers might step in to lead the command. Rogers (R-Saks), who chairs the House Armed Services Committee, has been a key figure in pushing for the permanent headquarters to be based in Alabama. But insiders say the speculation doesn’t hold water. “There’s no way Mike does that,” one source told OTR. “Space Command will be led by a general. There isn’t even a civilian leadership position high enough in that structure.”
Rocket City, you say?
During his Space Command announcement on Tuesday, President Trump christened Huntsville the Rocket City, much to the amusement of everyone who has been using the nickname for Alabama’s largest city for decades. In fact, the name Rocket City started in the 1950s with the arrival of Dr. Wernher von Braun’s German rocket team. Which is arguably an improvement over the former title of “Watercress Capital of the World.”
Not everyone is cheering
While the announcement of U.S. Space Command’s move to North Alabama has been hailed as a major win, not every local leader is celebrating. One high-ranking elected official cautioned that the community may not be ready for what’s coming. “I’m not sure everyone has thought this through. Everyone is about smart growth, but this is going to be crazy growth that we aren’t fully equipped to handle,” the official said. The move is expected to bring about 1,400 military and civilian jobs to Redstone Arsenal over the next five years. “It’s unpopular but it’s true, a lot of headaches are coming,” he said.
Missing in action
Conspicuous by their absence, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell and Shomari Figures were not among the Alabama congressional delegation at the Oval Office announcement of Space Command returning to Huntsville. According to her office, Sewell (D-Birmingham), who had been an ardent supporter of the move from the beginning – going against President Biden, was not invited.
Raising Cane’s eyes North Alabama
Chicken finger fans, take note, buzz is building that Raising Cane’s is scouting locations in North Alabama. The fast-growing chain, known for its simple menu and cult-favorite sauce, has been rapidly expanding across the Southeast. While no site has been confirmed, one commercial real estate insider says that Huntsville is “definitely on their radar,” with other North Alabama cities also in the mix.
SRT to Jackson County
Community input sessions are set for the proposed Singing River Trail route through Jackson County. The 200-plus mile greenway system aims to connect communities across North Alabama, linking Huntsville, Madison, Decatur, Athens, and the Shoals, with eventual plans to stretch from Mississippi to Georgia. The first Jackson County session will be held Sept. 18 at Warehouse 207 in Scottsboro. The come-and-go, open house–style meeting begins at 4:30 p.m., giving residents a chance to weigh in on potential routes and destinations that should be included along the trail.
