Ditto Landing overhaul brings big changes to riverfront
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Construction is set to wrap up by the end of 2026. Image: Courtesy of Ditto Landing
Work is underway on Ditto Landing's major riverside project, which is set for its grand opening late next year.
Why it matters: Ditto Landing's sweeping plans, including the State Docks renovation, are aiming to turn the marina into a regional recreation and entertainment destination.
- The project is also emblematic of South Huntsville's particular flavor of growth, featuring infill projects and redevelopment and investment at places like Ditto and Stadium Commons.
Brandi Quick, executive director of the Huntsville Madison County Marina and Port Authority, which operates Ditto Landing, tells Axios Huntsville that Ditto has "very little vacancies" in either boat slips or camp spots.
What they're saying: "We're seeing activity and interest [in] Ditto Landing growing exponentially, whether it's at a business association meeting or here at Ditto," she said. "The interest is incredible."
- Quick, also president of the board for the South Huntsville Business Association, said the area, aside from being "10 minutes away from anything you want to do," offers established neighborhoods with larger lot sizes close to Redstone Arsenal that are beginning to hit the market.
Catch up quick: The marquee project is the redevelopment of the 1950s-era State Docks structure, which is undergoing a reportedly $13.2 million revamp into a riverside event space.
- The plan calls for an outdoor venue and gathering area, a two-story restaurant and third-story event space as well as a banquet area able to seat 600, Quick said at a recent Council President Forum.
- The entry road from Hobb's Island has already been updated, as has road work and parking for the State Docks project. A bike repair station will soon be installed.
What's next: Tennessee RiverLine and Innovate Alabama have partnered to create an augmented-reality app allowing users "to aim your phone at different locations and ... see different information and learn more about Ditto Landing," Quick said at the forum.
- Also advancing is the East Harbor project — a $350,000 plan to repair the dilapidated launch ramp at Ditto Landing.
What we're watching: No tenants have yet been announced for the facility, though Quick says conversations are in the works.
- The port authority also owns 200 acres on the Morgan County side of the river, and while Quick says big-picture ideas are taking shape there as well, there's "going to have to be a lot of cooperation to make that happen."