Local Business, Economic & development News


Athens City

Alabama names Athens an official America 250 city

(rocketcitynow.com) - The Alabama USA Semiquincentennial Commission and American Village has named Athens one of the state’s America 250 cities. [Read More]



Culver

Popular burger restaurant opening new Huntsville location; $14 million bank planned

(al.com) - A new bank and a Culver’s Restaurant are coming to Huntsville. And Redstone Gateway buildings are being upgraded. [Read More]



parks

Holmes Avenue project to improving multimodal options moves forward

(huntsvilleal.gov) - The project will cover about 3.25 miles of Holmes Avenue from Spragins Avenue to Sparkman Drive. It will create multimodal transportation options for Holmes Avenue that will further enhance the roadway. [Read More]





rockets

Lockheed Martin Space awarded $18.8 million contract modification

(256today.com) - Lockheed Martin Space has been awarded an $18.8 million contract modification for continued work on the Navy’s Trident II (D5) Life Extension 2 program, with the largest share of work to be performed in Huntsville. [Read More]



Front Row

Front Row construction set to open in the summer

(waff.com) - The project will include luxury apartments, retail shops, office space, and a public plaza, all designed to bring more people downtown. [Read More]



Rocket

Alabama lawmakers advance bill renaming, expanding state aerospace agency

(yellowhammernews.com) - The Alabama Legislature is advancing SB228, a bill that would rename the Alabama Space Authority the Alabama Aerospace Authority and expand its membership and duties. [Read More]



Construction

New Target, Home Depot and 3,000 new homes are all part of Huntsville’s latest developments

(al.gov) - A Village of Providence-type development and a major retail development will both make their first appearances before the Huntsville Planning Commission on Tuesday. [Read More]



Aurex

Huntsville-based Aurex completes first launch of fly-along sensor package

(256today.com) - Huntsville aerospace and defense company Aurex has successfully completed the inaugural launch of its fly-along sensor package during a suborbital mission at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia. [Read More]



IKEA

IKEA U.S. to celebrate grand opening of first location in Alabama on February 25

(ikea.com) - “As we expand our presence in the U.S., we’re excited to introduce the IKEA experience to North Alabama, marking our very first location in the state,” said Rob Olson, interim CEO of IKEA U.S. [Read More]



Ditto landing

Ditto Landing Event Center construction ‘on schedule, within budget’

(256today.com) - Nearly eight months after breaking ground, construction on the $13 million Ditto Landing Event Center is ahead of schedule and on budget, according to Marina & Port Authority Executive Director Brandi Quick. [Read More]



Katie Britt

Britt brings latest developments from Capitol Hill

(theredstonerocket.com) - Katie Britt, Alabama’s freshman U.S. senator, gave an update Friday on the relocation of the U.S. Space Command headquarters from Colorado to Redstone Arsenal. [Read More]



roads

Traffic relief on one of Huntsville’s busiest corridors still years away

(al.com) - The $41 million Interstate 565 widening project is expected to be completed in 2026. Additional lanes are being added from County Line Road to Wall Triana Highway. [Read More]



Greenway

Huntsville’s popular greenway system is getting even larger

(al.com) - The Huntsville City Council approved two projects that will expand the greenway system through the city. [Read More]



Torch

Torch Technologies, ORNL launch partnership to accelerate national security innovation

(256today.com) - Huntsville-based Torch Technologies and the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have launched a new partnership aimed at accelerating mission-relevant innovation for national security and strengthening workforce development efforts. [Read More]



BAE

Missile warning systems to be supplied by U.S. to allied nations via BAE Systems

(militaryembedded.com) - BAE Systems won $137 million in Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contracts from the United States Army to deliver its Common Missile Warning System (CMWS) to allied nations, the company announced in a statement. [Read More]



Raytheon

Raytheon’s Alabama missile facility gets huge boost from latest Pentagon agreement

(256toda.com) - Production of the Tomahawks will increase to more than 1,000 per year and AMRAAMs to at least 1,900. Production of Standard Missile-6 interceptors will increase from 125 to more than 500. [Read More]



Madison

Madison opens new $10 million facility: ‘Major investment in safety’

(al.com) - The public safety annex is 37,500 square-feet on 15 acres dedicated to public safety operations. [Read More]



Katie Britt

Britt secures more than $21 million for North Alabama in Senate spending bills

(256today.com) “These appropriations bills will support North Alabama, including through improving transportation infrastructure, supporting cutting-edge research, and procuring critical medical equipment,” Britt said [Read More]



Redstone

Construction builds to $125M annually at Redstone

(theredstonerocket.com) - “There are a lot of new missions and programs moving to Redstone. And as a result, we have seen a large uptick in the amount of construction activity around post. [Read More]



Intuitive Research

Army increases Intuitive Research contract to nearly $74 million

(256today.com) - The U.S. Army has awarded a $24.4 million contract modification to Intuitive Research and Technology Corp., [Read More]



huntsville

Huntsville wins another prestigious national honor, coming in only behind Fayetteville, Arkansas

(al.com) - Huntsville is the second-best performing city in America according to rankings released Tuesday by the Milken Institute. [Read More]



SPX

New $119 million facility in north Alabama bringing another 350 jobs

(al.gov) - A Delaware-based manufacturer of large-scale cooling and air-handling equipment is building a $118.8 million facility in Huntsville. [Read More]



Blue Origin

Huntsville approves development agreements with Blue Origin and SPX to create more than 450 new jobs

(huntsvilleal.gov) - Blue Origin will invest $71.4 million to expand operations in Cummings Research Park and Jetplex Industrial Park, establishing Alabama as home to its thruster production and creating 105 jobs. [Read More]



annex

Huntsville City Council votes to annex nearly 650 acres of land on southside of I-565

(waff.com) - The Huntsville City Council voted unanimously Thursday evening to annex nearly 650 acres of land on the southside of I-565. [Read More]



Jobs

Best Cities for Jobs (2026), Huntsville list as #10

(wallethub.com) - As we leave 2025 behind, many people are looking for a fresh start – whether that means making small adjustments or pursuing a major life change. [Read More]



Hospital

Huntsville Hospital Health System to acquire Crestwood Medical Center in $450 million deal

(256today) - Under the agreement, Huntsville Hospital Health System will acquire substantially all of Crestwood Medical Center’s assets from a subsidiary of Community Health Systems Inc. [Read More]



Alabama

Alabama saw its highest ever economic development in 2025, Ivey says

(al.com) - Alabama in 2025 announced 234 economic development projects totaling $14.6 billion, the highest annual total ever, with 9,388 job commitments projected. [Read More]



 Pasture view

A Holistic Approach to Home Buying

With all the craziness going on in the world, many home buyers are now starting to look for a safe, healthy and organic place to live. [Read More]



real estate

Homes sales in 2026: What’s driving the optimistic forecast in north Alabama?

(al.com) - Home sales were down in the Huntsville metro in December when compared to a year ago. [Read More]



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Jennifer Gates, Legend Realty


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Review

Jennifer Steiger, 03/2024

5 stars

There are not enough words to express how AMAZING Jenn Gates is. We have purchased several homes in our lifetime and Jenn by far is the most thorough, caring and compassionate realtor we have ever had the pleasure of working with! She was constantly looking out for us and always had our best interests at heart. She was never pushy or impatient and sincerely just wanted us to have the home of our dreams. She showed us over 50 homes and with each one she treated us with the same excitement, enthusiasm and detail as if it were the first home. She was extremely knowledgeable about not only the market but the region as well and was able to bring things to our attention that we would not have considered otherwise moving from a different state. She truly is one of a kind and in a class all of her own.


Jennifer Gates, Legend Realty (256)755-4989


WHAT'S NEW TO HUNTSVILLE



Restaurant

Huntsville’s stylish new restaurant opens in locally iconic space

(al.com) - New York chef and restaurateur Pat Trama plotted One Eleven’s menu. He’s been a consultant for notable eateries like Nobu and Tribecca Grill, whose ownership includes movie star Robert De Niro. [Read More]



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Jennifer Gates, 256-755-4989




Needing to buy or sell your home? Please consider me as your local realtor! I would love to help you find your perfect dream home or help make your buying or selling experience painless and pleasant. For more about me, see my reviews below.



Jenn Gates logo

Jennifer Gates at Legend Realty

Contact Me: 256-755-4989

5 stars

Dorothy Stephens, 02/2025 - A year ago, my husband embarked on the epic journey of retiring from the military—because, apparently, after years of structure and precision, he thought navigating the real estate market would be a fun challenge. We knew we wanted to stay in the area but had absolutely no clue where to start. Enter Jenn, recommended by a family friend who, mind you, hadn’t even worked with her—just met her briefly and somehow knew she was amazing. That’s the kind of energy Jenn gives off. So, on a Sunday evening, I sent Jenn an email, fully expecting a response the next day. Nope. Ten minutes later, she replied, and before I knew it, we were on the phone. From that very first conversation, I knew—this was our person. We met in person, told her our wish list, and from that moment on, Jenn worked tirelessly. Day, night, middle of the night (okay, maybe not that extreme, but it sure felt like it). No matter when we texted, she was on it. Being first-time buyers, we had a million questions, and Jenn answered every single one, making sure we actually understood what was happening instead of just nodding along. Now, finding the house? That was tricky. Every place we saw was nice, but nothing screamed "forever home." But Jenn? She’s like a house-hunting magician. She never stopped. Then one day, she said, "I want you to check out this model home. It’s a little farther out than you were considering, but trust me—you’ll get way more bang for your buck." And, of course, she was right. The second we pulled up, we knew: this was it. Then came the fun part—building the home. Jenn was with us EVERY step of the way, asking all the questions we never even thought of, keeping us protected, and making sure everything went smoothly. Jenn isn’t just a Realtor. She’s a lifesaver, a guardian angel in a business suit, and now, officially, part of our family. Writing this review isn’t just a thank-you—it’s a love letter to the best Realtor ever!! And yes, we will absolutely keep our text chat going forever. Jenn, you are a rockstar! Thank you for everything!

5 stars

Bailee G., 01/16/2025 - My husband and I found Jenn through a mutual friend. We are moving from out-of-state and were looking for a realtor to help us find a new home. Jenn is one of the most professional, respectful, organized and thoughtful people my husband and I have ever worked with! She was on time for al appointments, and was always checking in with us to ask about any questions/concerns we had. When looking at houses she was thorough and always looked out for our best interest. I am SO glad we found here and we will always recommend her to anyone we know!!

5 stars

John Knudsen.,01/09/2025 - Jenn was an absolute treasure. We were completely new to the state of Alabama and she not only helped us buy our home but she even assisted us in finding a place to live while we were waiting to get settled. Jenn was patient and supportive when things went wrong and helped us pick up the pieces. she was extremely knowledgeable and obviously dedicated. She made herself available any day or time we needed here. Throughout the whole process we felt that Jenn had our back 100%. Above all of that she was kind, empathetic and understanding. She is a true professional but, even more, she genuinely cares about the work she is doing. We definitely would recommend her!

5 stars

Ginnine, 1/03/2025 - Working with Jen makes you feel like you're being actively cared for. She won't stop until she has exhausted every revenue at her disposal and will find you the most obscure information without hesitation. Beyond all that, she knows her stuff and has your back. I honestly can't even imagine how we could have gotten through this process with our sanity intact if it hadn't been for Jenn's strong work ethic and dedication. She is a true human and being and we would recommend her to anyone.

5 stars

Jennifer Steiger, 03/2024 - There are not enough words to express how AMAZING Jenn Gates is. We have purchased several homes in our lifetime and Jenn by far is the most thorough, caring and compassionate realtor we have ever had the pleasure of working with! She was constantly looking out for us and always had our best interests at heart. She was never pushy or impatient and sincerely just wanted us to have the home of our dreams. She showed us over 50 homes and with each one she treated us with the same excitement, enthusiasm and detail as if it were the first home. She was extremely knowledgeable about not only the market but the region as well and was able to bring things to our attention that we would not have considered otherwise moving from a different state. She truly is one of a kind and in a class all of her own.

5 stars

Kira Ritter, 01/2024 - Absolutely would use Jen over and over again. She puts literally everything into helping you find a home. She goes way absove and beyond for her clients and assures that everything is done correctly. She is such an amazing person, you really wont find anyone better!

5 stars

Janet Lynch, 05/2023 - Jennifer is AMAZING and took care of us above and beyond the scope of a realtor. She jumped in and helped clear our house. And she heard me receive the worst news one can hear while assisting us…. A death of a parent. Words can not express the gratitude I have for her. She deserves high praises. May God bless her.

5 stars

Andrew Lang, 04/2023 - Undoubtedly the most reliable, well informed, and honest realtor in my experience buying real estate. Jenn answers your questions before you ask them and never failed to respond to my direct text or phone call at any time. If your looking for real estate in Huntsville, AL and surrounding areas, Jenn is the right choice.

5 stars

Ken Huffman, 11/10/2022 - Jennifer is the best agent I have ever worked with. Her knowledge and approach to any question or situation is amazing. If you need a outstanding Real Estate agent who cares, you can't go wrong.

5 stars

Reece Reed, 11/08/2022 - Very helpful, very friendly! Very highly recommended!

5 stars

Ryan McGreevy, 08/12/2022 - Ryan McGreevy - Working with Jennifer Gates at Legend Realty was great! She was professional, knowledgeable, and very easy to work with. Coming from out of the area she was very familiar with all of the communities in which we were looking, which ultimately helped us settle on a property. I highly recommend Jenn and her network of partners!

5 stars

J. Travis Edwards, 05/13/2022 - Professional and very thorough! An eye for detail and follow up. Would highly recommend. Not only found a realtor, but a lifelong friend.

5 stars

Jason Russell, 02/22/2022 - Jen is one of the most considerate professionals I’ve ever met. Going above and beyond to ensure we were satisfied at many touch points during our building process. She is very well prepared and a heart of gold!

5 stars

12/18/2021 - Jennifer is a fantastic realtor who goes above and beyond for her clients! We were relocating from out of state and needed to maximize our time for our house hunt. Jenn understood our criteria, narrowed down a great list for us and helped us find our home that first weekend! Throughout the process she was a wealth of knowledge both of all things real estate, and of the local area. We are thrilled with our new home and now our new friend. I can't recommend Jenn highly enough!

5 stars

k. teach, 09/27/2021 - We were from Virginia and didn’t know the area but we were looking for a house for our son moving to Huntsville. Jenn was so much help showing us all the areas and various houses available. We finally settled on a home and she has been so much help with all of our questions she’s great!

5 stars

Keri Lynn, 07/15/2021 - Jennifer has worked with us in several transactions. She is an outstanding agent and helped us with a purchase that had 14 other offers! She goes above and beyond and is outstanding!! 5 STARS all the way!



Need Help Relocating to the Huntsville Area? Send me a note!

 
 
 
 



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