The Park at Hays Farm to be ‘buzzing hub of activity’ in south Huntsville

HUNTSVILLE – While designed to be a respite from the “hustle and bustle,” The Park at Hays Farm will also be a center of activity in south Huntsville.

“This long-anticipated project that will provide residents in south Huntsville the type of park that we’ve seen in other parts of the city,” Mayor Tommy Battle said at Tuesday’s ground-breaking ceremony. “This park will be versatile enough to be a buzzing hub of activity for friends and families while also providing quiet areas away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The nine-acre park near Grissom High School will take about 14 months to complete, with a tentative opening set for fall 2025. Features include a one-acre lake and a waterfall feature that will give the greenspace a distinctive look. At the main entrance, an entry portal will house two family restrooms.

Related story: ‘Enhancing quality of life’: Huntsville breaking ground on The Park at Hays Farm

There will also be a pavilion for group events, unique seating spaces for picnics and open space for children to play and explore while accommodating activities such as kite flying and frisbee throwing.

“It’s something that everyone will be able to enjoy,” Battle said.

Near the school, there will be stone signs that act as a gate and a plaza for pedestrians as they cross the street. Wide walking trails will wind throughout the park.

Centered from the pavilion will be a windmill that has been relocated from the Hays family farm and serves as the logo linking the park to the Hays Farm mixed-use development.

“We are immensely grateful to the Hays family for their invaluable partnership in this pivotal project,” District 3 Council Member Jennie Robinson said. “Their dedication to preserving Huntsville’s natural resources while creating opportunities for recreation and education is truly commendable.

“From the Hays Nature Preserve to The Park at Hays Farm, their vision and stewardship have enriched our community.”