Leaders at the University of Alabama in Huntsville are praising U.S. Senator Katie Britt and U.S. Rep. Dale Strong for securing federal funding support tied to the university’s Exploration Plaza expansion — backing they say will accelerate research, innovation, and student opportunity in Huntsville.
The University of System leadership, along with campus officials, credited the two lawmakers, who each play a leading role in their chambers’ appropriations process, with helping advance a major campus expansion initiative and related research infrastructure investments that strengthen the Rocket City’s position as a technology and innovation hub.
“We are extremely grateful to Senator Katie Britt and Congressman Dale Strong for their strong leadership in securing critical federal support for UAH’s Exploration Plaza,” UA System Chancellor Sid J. Trant said.
“This is a significant development for UAH and its role within the Huntsville community. The transformational campus expansion will enhance student life, advance innovative research and foster collaboration with industry partners, strengthening UAH’s role in serving Alabama and the nation.”
Britt and Strong secured $14.2 million total in congressionally directed federal support for UAH tied to Exploration Plaza — Britt (R-Montgomery) secured $10 million via THUD/HUD and Strong (R-Huntsville) secured an additional $4.2 million via CJS/NIST.
Through their appropriations roles, Britt on the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Strong as Vice Chair of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies — the lawmakers wield dynamic influence in steering federal dollars toward Alabama priorities.
UAH President Dr. Chuck Karr said that influence played a direct role in moving the project forward and expanding the university’s impact across Huntsville’s high-tech economy.
“UAH is extremely proud and very grateful to have the support of Senator Katie Britt and Rep. Dale Strong as we move forward with Exploration Plaza. Because of their leadership, UAH will be able to expand our campus and establish a dynamic innovation hub for our students, the high-tech workforce, and the greater Huntsville community,” Karr said.
University planning materials describe Exploration Plaza as a large-scale, multi-phase expansion covering about 58 acres that will add a mixed-use innovation district near campus.
The project is designed to bring together new research space, student-focused facilities, and industry partnership opportunities in one connected area — supporting advanced research, workforce development, and closer collaboration with Huntsville’s technology and defense sectors.
Officials state the development is expected to generate economic activity, expand job opportunities, and add new amenities that serve both the campus and the surrounding Huntsville community.
University leaders say the federal support and ongoing development momentum reflect continued growth for UAH and reinforce Huntsville’s standing as one of Alabama’s leading centers for research, engineering, and innovation.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. She may be contacted at [email protected].
