New 400-acre nature preserve coming to Hueytown [MAPS]

The east side of Jefferson County has the Turkey Creek Nature Preserve. Birmingham is home to Ruffner Mountain and Red Mountain Park. Now, thanks to the city of Hueytown,  West Jefferson County will have its own approximately 400-acre nature park called West Rock Mountain Preserve. 

Here’s what you need to know about the new nature preserve and how you can contribute to the vision.

Background on the West Rock Mountain Preserve

Hueytown residents are the ones to thank for the nature preserve. They alerted Mayor Steve Ware about plans to clearcut the property, and he went into negotiations. After many months of negotiations, Mayor Ware was able to reach an agreement on purchasing the land from the University of Alabama.

The upcoming meeting for West Rock Mountain Preserve

On Thursday, August 24th, 5-7PM, the city of Hueytown is holding an interactive Town Hall meeting at the City Hall Annex (1320 Hueytown Road) to receive input from residents about the new nature park and other potential developments.

At the meeting, Hueytown wants to hear from residents about their ideas for the nature preserve. The city seeks to make this special place “something for everyone.”  Their goal? Create a traditional nature park that will serve residents of all ages. Some of the amenities they plan to discuss include:

• Hiking trails
• Bicycling/Mountain biking
• Environmental education

“The really ‘fun part’ will involve the citizens as they weigh in on the best way to develop this property, which will improve the quality of life in Hueytown.” ~ Hueytown Mayor Steve Ware

Below – Location of the Preserve on 15th St and Virginia Mines in Hueytown

Future Hueytown meetings for adjacent 450 acres

Adjacent to the nature park, the city has purchased an additional 450 acres. More Town Mall meetings will be held to determine how to proceed with the property.. There are many ideas for that portion of the property ranging from single family homes to athletic fields and commercial venues. The city is seeking input and guidance from local residents, before they move forward.

Got questions about Thursday evening’s meeting and future Town Hall events? Call the Hueytown city hall at 205-491-7010.

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