Plans for arboretum in John Hunt Park move forward with donation from Rotary Club of Greater Huntsville

Published on March 13, 2025

The City of Huntsville received a $50,000 donation from the Rotary Club of Greater Huntsville to help fund an arboretum project in John Hunt Park that will expand educational and recreational opportunities.

The 3-acre park is planned along Airport Road just west of Alex McAllister Drive. The park will meet The Arbor Day Foundation requirements for a level II arboretum and include 100 different species of native trees.

Huntsville Landscape Management developed a plan for the trees to be displayed in their natural settings by creating large berms, dry creek beds and bogs to simulate swampy areas with the assistance of Public Works.

“This is a tremendous project that will add to the amenities in John Hunt Park,” Huntsville Landscape Management Director Brian Walker said. “It’s 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 their generous donation, and we are excited about moving forward on this project.”

Plans include a walkway throughout the park so visitors can view the trees as well as benches and displays 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 turf area for picnics and leisurely activities.

The park will be complimented by native shrubs and wildflower gardens to promote sustainability in home landscapes. Two original dogwood trees from the old airport terminal within the park’s footprint will also be preserved. The park will be enclosed by fencing, columns and a sign that will recognize donors to the project.