The City of Decatur’s One Decatur Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee has finalized its year in review of 2021 objectives and goals.
A Year in Review
From historic housing growth to booming development from Decatur’s downtown, numerous objectives from the One Decatur plan were accomplished in 2021.
Residential Growth
As a result of a One Decatur objective, the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce was instrumental in creating a residential development task force to maximize on the historic growth and momentum seen in North Alabama.
In 2021, the City of Decatur’s Planning Commission reviewed applications for over 600 new residential lots. The incoming housing developments range from townhomes to estate lots, in every district of Decatur.
Downtown Development
Decatur’s downtown will welcome numerous developments this year, thanks to initiatives created in the One Decatur plan.
Students will soon reside in the new Alabama Center for the Arts dormitory, which will be conveniently located to both classes and Decatur’s Arts and Entertainment District. Fairfield Inn and a new parking deck will also be added to the 2nd Avenue corridor for easy access to shops and restaurants.
McGhee Square, a luxury townhome development, will accent the upcoming artisanal market slated to open on Bank Street later this year.
Progress continues to be made on the project to improve one of the primary entry points and gateways to the City of Decatur – the 6th Avenue corridor, from Wilson Street SE to Prospect Drive SE. The 6th Avenue streetscape plan will include wayfinding signage and low-impact foliage throughout the area. Volkert, Inc. has been hired to oversee the engineering and design for the project.
Riverfront Redevelopment
The historic McEntire house has been purchased for revitalization and will soon open as a boutique hotel, upscale restaurant, and event center. Renovations are slated be completed in the next 24 months.
Limestone County Development
The Toyota-Mazda manufacturing plant has primed the Highway 20 corridor for development. A new distribution center is currently under construction on Bibb Garrett Road, west of I-65. More development is anticipated in the near future for the area with the completion of the new Highway 20 overpass.
Decatur City Schools
Decatur City Schools will break ground this spring on its new Career Academies of Decatur facility, which offer specific vocational tracks and equipment for students. Highlighted programs include: engineering, EMT training, and an additional medical career facility.
About One Decatur
One Decatur, the City’s comprehensive plan, was adopted in February 2018 and co-created through community feedback and guidance.
The City of Decatur is now entering the next phase of the plan – reviewing and updating the zoning ordinance.
Those interested in becoming involved with the implementation of the strategic plan may contact the City of Decatur’s Communication Specialist Emme Stewart at (256) 559-6007 or estewart@decatur-al.gov.