Published on March 13, 2025
The city of Huntsville received a donation of 50,000 US dollars from the Rotary Club of Greater Huntsville in order to finance an arboretum project in John Hunt Park that extends educational and leisure opportunities.
The 3 hectare park is planned along the Airport Road west of Alex McAllister Drive. The park meets the requirements for the Arbor Day Foundation for an arboretum of level II and comprises 100 different types of local trees.
Huntsville's landscape management developed a plan in which the trees were to be issued in their natural environments by creating large berms, Dry Creek beds and bogs to simulate swampy areas with the support of public work.
“This is an enormous project that will contribute the amenities in John Hunt Park,” said Brian Walker, director of Huntsville's landscape management. “It is a rare opportunity to develop a park like this in the center of the city, and the educational aspect will be a unique component. The city is grateful to the Rotary Club of Greater Huntsville for its generous donation and we look forward to this project. “
The plans include a sidewalk in the entire park so that visitors can see the trees as well as benches and exhibitions of public art. Visitors can access information about each tree by scanning QR codes with their mobile devices. The center of the park will have a lawn area for picnic and leisurely activities.
The park is supplemented by local shrubs and wildflower gardens in order to promote sustainability in home landscapes. Two original dogwood trees from the old airport terminal within the park's footprint are also preserved. The park will be enclosed by fences, columns and a sign that will recognize the donor for the project.