HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Have you driven through the city of Athens lately? New businesses and attractions are popping up left and right.
Thousands of people are moving to the small towns outside of Huntsville, and Mayor Ronnie Marks of Athens is committed to keeping up with the growth.
Mayor Marks says the park cost an estimated $900,000 and $600,000 came from the city. The new Jimmy Gill park is located on Hines Rd, and it comes with a basketball court, sitting pavilions, a walkway trail and playgrounds for children of all ages.
Mayor Marks says, "It's a great location, beautiful park, beautiful facility. The next door neighbors are excited about it. Those that live across the street because they are excited about having activity here."
There are still several attractions that need to be installed on the eleven acre plot of land. Once the park is open, you can visit the city's website to rent certain spaces for events.
"You can tell we're still doing some dirt work, we are improving the walking trail around the lake here," Mayor Marks said. "We've got about 30 to 45 days depending on the weather of course. It's springtime in Alabama so that depends."
Jimmy Gill Park is not to be confused with Pryor Park located near the new Publix. Pryor Park is a 32 acre outdoor attraction that will take years to complete.