TTL Reveals Preliminary Concepts For Lake Nicol, Harris Lake Master Plan

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Tuscaloosa-based firm tasked with forming a master plan for Lake Nicol and Harris Lake by the City of Tuscaloosa has unveiled preliminary concepts to add a host of amenities to the two popular outdoor locations.

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In partnership with Birmingham's Barge Design Solutions, Inc., TTL on Tuesday officially announced preliminary plans that could see the City of Tuscaloosa create the following offerings:

• A Retreat District and a Day Use/Camping District along Lake Nicol.
• A Group Events District and Active Recreation District on Harris Lake.
• A nearby Village District serving both lakes that would feature open space, with plans for shops and/or businesses.

Harris Lake was first completed in 1929 and occupies 220 acres, while the 384-acre Lake Nicol was completed in 1956.

Both locations are popular destinations for hiking, bird watching, canoeing and swimming. They have also been on the radar of city and local tourism officials, alike, as a way to boost eco-tourism in the area.

The big reveal of the proposed concepts comes after nearly a hundred Tuscaloosa-area residents attended a community engagement meeting last week that was hosted by TTL and the City of Tuscaloosa at the Phelps Center.

These broad conceptual plans, however, are intended to serve as a basic framework and far from all the public can expect.

Indeed, with plans not yet finalized, TTL says it is also in the process of reviewing data from more than 1,000 responses to an ongoing online survey — in addition to the range of feedback from the recent community engagement meeting to aid in the development of the overall master plan.

The short survey can be taken by clicking here.

City officials previously said the purpose of the survey is to better understand the community's current uses for the lakes, along with gathering feedback on future desires. For instance, the survey gauges what amenities residents would like to see added, in addition to soliciting feedback on popular activities enjoyed by those who visit the lakes.

TTL Chief Operating Officer Jason Walker said he was pleased with the turnout and input provided through the public meeting last week.

“While we did hear some concerns about draft elements of the plan from area residents, there was overall very positive feedback and additional ideas brought to the table for consideration,” he said.

As the master plan for the two lakes comes together, Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox said there is genuine excitement for the years to come regarding the proposed improvements.

“Data shows that young professionals prefer to choose their city of residence before their workplace, and local recreation is at the top of the list of things they’re looking for," he said. "With your help, we’re creating a vision that will maximize the potential of these two jewels of our community to help attract and retain the best and brightest for years to come.”

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