Hubbry Logo
Decatur, AlabamaDecatur, AlabamaMain
Open search
Decatur, Alabama
Community hub
Decatur, Alabama
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Decatur, Alabama
Decatur, Alabama
Decatur, Alabama
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Decatur (/dɪˈkeɪtər/[6]) is the largest city in and the county seat of Morgan County (with a portion also in Limestone County) in the U.S. state of Alabama.[7] Nicknamed "The River City," it is located in northern Alabama on the banks of Wheeler Lake along the Tennessee River. The population was 57,938 at the 2020 census.[4]

Key Information

Decatur is the core city of the two-county large Decatur metropolitan area, with an estimated population of 157,425 in 2022. Combined with the Huntsville Metropolitan Area, the two create the Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area, of which Decatur is the second-largest city.

Like many southern cities in the early 19th century, Decatur's early success was based upon its location along a river. Railroad routes and boating traffic pushed the city to the front of North Alabama's economic atmosphere. The city rapidly grew into a large economic center within the Tennessee Valley and was a hub for travelers and cargo between Nashville and Mobile, as well as Chattanooga and New Orleans. Throughout the 20th century, the city experienced steady growth but was eclipsed as the regional economic center by the fast-growing Huntsville during the space race. Decatur now finds its economy heavily based on manufacturing, mining, cargo transit, chemical, and high-tech companies such as Vulcan Materials,[8] Daikin,[9] Toray,[10] and United Launch Alliance.[11]

History

[edit]
Old State Bank
See also: Albany, Alabama

Initially, the area was known as "Rhodes Ferry Landing", named for Dr. Henry W. Rhodes, an early landowner who operated a ferry that crossed the Tennessee River in the 1810s at the present-day location of Rhodes Ferry Park. The city was incorporated as Decatur in 1821. It was named in honor of Stephen Decatur; after he was killed in a duel in 1820, President Monroe directed that the Alabama town be named for him.[12]

In the early 1830s, Decatur was the eastern terminus of the Tuscumbia, Courtland and Decatur Railroad, the first railway built west of the Appalachian Mountains. In 1850, the Tuscumbia, Courtland and Decatur was incorporated into the Memphis & Charleston Railroad.[13]

Because of its location on the Tennessee River at the strategically important crossing of two major railroads, Decatur was the site of several encounters during the American Civil War. When the Union Army occupied the city early in the war, the commanding general ordered all but four buildings in the town to be destroyed. Bricks from some of the churches in town were used to build stoves and chimneys for the buildings that housed soldiers. Three of the buildings that remained are still standing - the Old State Bank, the Dancy-Polk House, and the Burleson-Hinds-McEntire House. After the Union victory in the Battle of Atlanta, a Confederate army under the command of General John Bell Hood briefly sparred with a vastly outmanned garrison during the 1864 Battle of Decatur, when the city was referred to as "A Tough Nut to Crack."[citation needed]

While the city was under Confederate control, plans for the Battle of Shiloh were mapped out within the Burleson-Hinds-McEntire House. These activities make the house one of the most historic buildings in Decatur.[14]

New Decatur was a city that rose out of the ashes of former Decatur west of the railroad tracks. New Decatur was founded in 1887 and incorporated in 1889. However, residents of the older Decatur resented the new town, founded and occupied by people who moved down from northern states. Animosity was built until New Decatur renamed their town "Albany" after Albany, New York, in September 1916. The impetus to meld the two towns came from the need for a bridge, instead of a ferry, across the Tennessee River. The Decatur Kiwanis Club was formed with an equal number of members from each town to organize efforts to get the state to build the bridge. In 1925, the two cities merged to form one City of Decatur. There is a noticeable difference between the two sides of town. The cities developed differently at different times and still to this day have somewhat different cultures. Eastern portions of Decatur tend to act more suburban and traditional, while western portions tend to look more metropolitan and contemporary.[citation needed]

The Old State Bank, on the edge of downtown, is the oldest bank building in the State of Alabama, being 190 years old. The first wave pool in the United States was built in Decatur and is still in operation at the Point Mallard Aquatic Center.[15] The city has the largest Victorian-era home district in the state of Alabama.

In the past, its industries included repair shops of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, car works, engine works, bottling plants, and manufacturers of lumber, sashes and blinds, tannic acid, fertilizers, cigars, flour, cottonseed oil, and various other products.[citation needed][16]

Geography

[edit]

The Tennessee River has traditionally been the northern border of the city and Morgan County, but a small portion of the city extends across the river into Limestone County between U.S. 31 and I-65. Major bodies of water in the city include Wheeler Lake on the Tennessee River itself, plus Flint Creek, and Dry Branch,[17] tributaries of the Tennessee River. The city extends to the other side of Flint Creek and the Refuge in the Indian Hills and Burningtree subdivision areas.

The northern portion of Decatur sits on top of a short hill that overlooks the Tennessee River; this creates a very steep drop-off to the river shore at Rhodes Ferry Park. This hill allows the "Steamboat Bill" Memorial Bridge to leave the mainland at grade without any major sloping required to cross the river while not interfering with Decatur's heavy barge traffic. This hill extends from the banks of the river about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) south to the 14th St./Magnolia St. intersection with 6th Avenue (US 31).[citation needed]

South past the 14th St. and 6th Ave. intersection, land remains flat. South, and also west, past S.R. 67 there are a few minor ridges that sit within the city limits.[citation needed]

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 61.020 square miles (158.04 km2), of which 54.594 square miles (141.40 km2) is land and 6.426 square miles (16.64 km2), is water.[2] Decatur is 25 miles (40 km) southwest of Huntsville, 86 miles (138 km) north of Birmingham, and 44 miles (71 km) east of Muscle Shoals.

Climate

[edit]

Decatur has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa) with four distinct seasons.

Winters are generally mild, with a January daily average temperature of 40.6 °F (4.8 °C). On average, the low temperature falls to the freezing mark or below on 59 days a year, and to or below 20 °F (−7 °C) on 9.2 days.[18] Winters usually do not produce much snow; a large amount of snow is rare within the city limits. A small, measurable amount of snow can be experienced a few times each year. In 2011, Decatur received up to 8 inches (20 cm) of snow in a single storm. It tied for the most since 1963. [citation needed]Summers are hot and humid with a July daily average temperature of 79.6 °F (26.4 °C). There are 51–52 days of 90 °F (32 °C)+ highs annually and 1.7 days of 100 °F (38 °C)+ highs.[18] Thunderstorms are common during the summer months. The latter part of summer tends to be drier. Autumn, which spans from mid-September to early December, tends to be similar to spring in terms of temperature and precipitation, although it begins relatively dry.

Precipitation averages about 53.4 inches per year and on average, is relatively (and uniformly) heavy from November to July, with December the single wettest month on average; August through October are slightly drier months on average. Occasionally, severe thunderstorms occur. These storms can produce damaging winds and large hail in addition to the usual hazards of lightning and very heavy rain. There is also the risk of tornadoes. Severe thunderstorms can occur at any time of the year, but are most common during the spring months. A secondary severe weather season peaks in November. Occasionally from July to October, the Decatur area experiences strong winds and/or heavy to excessive rain from tropical disturbances. These commonly make landfall along the Gulf Coast as hurricanes but lose intensity as they move inland.

The highest recorded temperature was 108 °F (42 °C) on July 28, 1952, and August 16, 1954, while the lowest recorded temperature was −19 °F (−28 °C) on January 30, 1966.[18]

Climate data for Decatur, Alabama (1991–2020 normals)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °F (°C) 78
(26) 		82
(28) 		87
(31) 		94
(34) 		99
(37) 		105
(41) 		108
(42) 		108
(42) 		105
(41) 		97
(36) 		86
(30) 		80
(27) 		108
(42)
Mean daily maximum °F (°C) 50.7
(10.4) 		55.4
(13.0) 		63.7
(17.6) 		73.0
(22.8) 		80.8
(27.1) 		87.6
(30.9) 		89.8
(32.1) 		89.8
(32.1) 		85.1
(29.5) 		74.5
(23.6) 		62.3
(16.8) 		53.6
(12.0) 		72.2
(22.3)
Daily mean °F (°C) 41.4
(5.2) 		45.3
(7.4) 		52.7
(11.5) 		61.6
(16.4) 		69.9
(21.1) 		77.1
(25.1) 		79.7
(26.5) 		78.8
(26.0) 		73.1
(22.8) 		62.0
(16.7) 		50.8
(10.4) 		44.1
(6.7) 		61.4
(16.3)
Mean daily minimum °F (°C) 32.0
(0.0) 		35.2
(1.8) 		41.7
(5.4) 		50.1
(10.1) 		59.1
(15.1) 		66.6
(19.2) 		69.7
(20.9) 		67.9
(19.9) 		61.2
(16.2) 		49.5
(9.7) 		39.2
(4.0) 		34.6
(1.4) 		50.6
(10.3)
Record low °F (°C) −19
(−28) 		−4
(−20) 		7
(−14) 		20
(−7) 		35
(2) 		42
(6) 		51
(11) 		50
(10) 		36
(2) 		24
(−4) 		0
(−18) 		−5
(−21) 		−19
(−28)
Average precipitation inches (mm) 4.64
(118) 		4.96
(126) 		4.96
(126) 		4.50
(114) 		4.15
(105) 		3.66
(93) 		3.95
(100) 		3.05
(77) 		3.21
(82) 		3.23
(82) 		3.96
(101) 		5.20
(132) 		49.47
(1,257)
Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) 9.3 12.1 11.0 11.0 10.8 11.4 12.4 10.6 8.3 8.6 9.7 10.8 126.0
Source 1: NOAA[18]
Source 2: The Weather Channel (extremes)[19]

Neighboring cities/towns

[edit]
  • Athens (north) - Limestone County
  • Hartselle (south) - Morgan County
  • Hillsboro (west) - Lawrence County
  • Huntsville (northeast) - Madison/Limestone counties
  • Madison (northeast) - Madison/Limestone counties (however Huntsville completely separates the two)[20]
  • Mooresville (northeast) - Limestone County
  • Moulton (southwest) - Lawrence County
  • Priceville (east) - Morgan County
  • Trinity (west) - Morgan County

Neighborhoods

[edit]

Decatur is divided into four different regions of town (Northeast, Southeast, Northwest, Southwest). Southeast and Northeast Decatur lie east of the CSX Railroad's mainline. North of Lee Street, the dividing line is Bank Street which runs a block east of and parallel to the railroad. Northeast and Southeast and are divided by Moulton Street. Southwest consists of the area west of the CSX Railroad and south of Moulton Street. Northwest is bordered by Moulton Street, the CSX Railroad from Moulton Street to Lee Street and then by Bank Street from Lee Street to the Tennessee River. While there are few major cultural differences between the East and the West, minute differences such as street grid patterns, zoning patterns, and architectural styles are noticeable.[citation needed]

Northwest

[edit]
  • West Decatur (the portion north of Moulton Street)

Northeast

[edit]
  • Albany (New Decatur)
  • Downtown Decatur
  • East Acres
  • Old Decatur
  • Bank Street and Second Avenue (Downtown Shopping District)
  • Harborview (Riverfront)
  • Irvington (Limestone County)
  • Whiteside (Limestone County)

Southeast

[edit]

Southwest

[edit]
  • Autumn Ridge
  • Austinville
  • Basham
  • Braswell
  • Cedar Ridge
  • Chapel Hill
  • Chula Vista
  • City View Estates
  • Deerfoot Estates
  • Dogwood Estates
  • Dunbarton
  • Flint
  • Graystone
  • Griffin Addition
  • Longleaf Estates
  • Moulton Heights
  • Oak Lea
  • Oakworth
  • Timberlake
  • Russell Village
  • Vestavia
  • West Decatur (the portion south of Moulton Street)
  • Westmeade
  • Woodtrail

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
1850606—
1870671—
18801,06358.4%
18902,765160.1%
19003,11412.6%
19104,22835.8%
19204,75212.4%
193015,593228.1%
194016,6046.5%
195019,97420.3%
196029,21746.3%
197038,04430.2%
198042,00210.4%
199048,76116.1%
200053,92910.6%
201055,6833.3%
202057,9384.0%
2024 (est.)57,974[5]0.1%
U.S. Decennial Census[21]
2020 Census[4]

2020 census

[edit]
Decatur racial composition[22]
Race Number Percent
White (non-Hispanic) 32,079 55.37%
Black or African American (non-Hispanic) 13,314 22.98%
Native American 207 0.36%
Asian 518 0.89%
Pacific Islander 54 0.09%
Other/Mixed 2,696 4.65%
Hispanic or Latino 9,070 15.65%

As of the 2020 census, there were 57,938 people, 23,570 households, and 14,864 families residing in the city.[23] There were 25,351 housing units.

2010 census

[edit]

As of the 2010 census, there were 55,683 people, 22,576 households, and 14,918 families residing in the city. The population density was 953.5 inhabitants per square mile (368.1/km2). There were 24,538 housing units at an average density of 420.2 per square mile (162.2/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 66.5% White, 21.7% Black or African American, 0.7% Native American, 0.9% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 7.9% from other races, and 2.2% from two or more races. 12.4% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 22,576 households, out of which 28.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.0% were married couples living together, 15.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.9% were non-families. 29.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.42 and the average family size was 2.99.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 24.1% under the age of 18, 9.0% from 18 to 24, 26.1% from 25 to 44, 26.3% from 45 to 64, and 14.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37.9 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $43,090, and the median income for a family was $55,158. Males had a median income of $42,146 versus $27,477 for females. The per capita income for the city was $23,615. About 12.8% of families and 17.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 28.3% of those under age 18 and 11.1% of those age 65 or over.

2000 census

[edit]

As of the 2000 census, there were 53,929 people, 21,824 households, and 14,753 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,009.7 inhabitants per square mile (389.8/km2). There were 23,950 housing units at an average density of 448.4 per square mile (173.1/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 75.50% White, 19.56% Black or African American, 0.58% Native American, 0.70% Asian, 0.13% Pacific Islander, 2.22% from other races, and 1.33% from two or more races. 5.64% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 21,824 households, out of which 31.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.7% were married couples living together, 13.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.4% were non-families. 28.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.43 and the average family size was 2.99.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 25.4% under the age of 18, 8.8% from 18 to 24, 29.6% from 25 to 44, 23.1% from 45 to 64, and 13.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $37,192, and the median income for a family was $47,574. Males had a median income of $37,108 versus $22,471 for females. The per capita income for the city was $20,431. About 11.9% of families and 14.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.2% of those under age 18 and 11.1% of those age 65 or over.

Economy

[edit]

Decatur has grown to be the busiest river port on the Tennessee River. The Port of Decatur sees large amounts of barge traffic from up and down the Tennessee River, which has led to twelve Fortune 500 companies opening plants in the city. Major employers include General Electric, 3M, Wayne Farms, United Launch Alliance, Nucor, Bunge Limited, Daikin, Hyosung, Ascend Performance Materials, and the Tennessee Valley Authority.[24]

Decatur is also known as the "Home of Meow Mix", after the company bought a 200,000-square-foot (19,000 m2) facility in town, and now utilizes its riverfront property to ship the finished product up and down the Tennessee River.[citation needed]

Being part of the Huntsville-Decatur CSA, the city lies within the region having the most engineers per capita in the nation.[citation needed]

Delta IV rocket

Approval of the United Launch Alliance combined Lockheed-Martin and Boeing's rocket manufacturing contracts to a central location at the plant in Decatur. All satellite launching rockets used by the U.S. government will be built in Decatur. This approval brought over 230 new jobs to the Decatur area. The ULA plant utilizes the Tennessee River to ship the rockets to Cape Canaveral.[25]

In March 2008, a $1.3 billion development, including a Bass Pro Shops was announced for the Interstate 65/Interstate 565 interchange inside the city limits. The development, named Sweetwater, would have included more than 1,000,000 square feet (93,000 m2) of retail space, 825,000 square feet (76,600 m2) of medical and office space, 2,700 residences, and an entertainment venue with seating for up to 8,000 people. A school, fire department, parks and lakes were expected to support the future development.[26] As of Spring 2010, this project still seems to be on the horizon, but there is no set date for the project to start.[27] As of 2012, Bass Pro Shop has removed Decatur from its list of stores "Coming Soon" on its webpage. In 2013, Mayor Don Kyle announced that the "Sweet Water" complex was back on track, but has not announced whether Bass Pro Shops will be involved or not. Research from the Franklin Center for Government and Public Integrity suggests that the economic impact of Bass Pro Shops is typically limited despite the large subsidies the company often receives.[28]

Tourism

[edit]
Balloons inflating at the 1990 Alabama Jubilee

Tourism is a major part of Decatur's economy. Hundreds of thousands of people from in and out of town and from many other countries and territories attend some of the premier festivals in the South.[29]

The Alabama Jubilee, begun in 1978, is the oldest hot air balloon race south of the Kentucky Derby's Great Balloon Race (from 1973). With visiting populations rising to 100,000, people crowd around more than 60 seven-story-tall balloons as they inflate. Because of the Alabama Jubilee, Decatur has been named "The Ballooning Capital of Alabama" by the Alabama State Legislature.[30]

The Spirit of America Festival is one of the largest free Fourth of July festivals in the South. More than 65,000 people arrive in Decatur to watch annual celebrations and the Miss Spirit of America beauty pageant. The contest was known as "Miss Point Mallard" from 1976 through 2013. It moved to the Princess Theatre in 2014.[31]

Another large event in Decatur and North Alabama, the Racking Horse World Celebration attracts horses from around the world to compete in the largest Racking Horse competition. Held in the Celebration Arena near Priceville, the celebration draws up to 75,000 fans and competitors each year.[citation needed]

The Riverfest barbeque cook-off at Ingalls Harbor is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society and attracts competitors from across the country. Beginning in 1995, the festival has previously been selected as a top ten tourist event in the State of Alabama, festival goers can expect live, nationally known musical acts, children's activities, and award-winning barbeque. Proceeds benefit the local community including several charitable organizations.

2018 saw the opening of the Cook Museum of Natural Science located at 133 Fourth Avenue NE Decatur, Alabama 35601 and showcases a wide variety of native animal and plant species within a state of the art facility. Cook Museum of Natural Science has been nominated by USA Today in their 2020 10 Best Readers' Choice travel awards as one of the best new museums to open in the past two years. Cook Museum of Natural Science is the newspaper's only Alabama-based nominee.

Parks and recreation

[edit]
Replica of historic structure in the re-constructed Rose Garden in Delano Park

Delano Park - Founded in 1887, the 28 acre Delano Park (pronounced DELL-uh-no) is Morgan County's oldest city park in continuous operation and an oasis in the heart of historic Decatur. At 125 years old, the park is recognized as a designed historic landscape and is listed on the National Historic Register.[32]

Government

[edit]
Mayor Kent Lawrence

The current mayor of Decatur is Kent Lawrence, who was elected in 2025.[33] The city has a five-member/district City Council.[34]

Education

[edit]

Austin High and Decatur High are the two main high schools of the city. With the addition of the International Baccalaureate Program to Austin and Decatur High Schools, Decatur has become the first Alabama school system north of Birmingham and one of five in the state to offer the honors program for juniors and seniors (as of July 2006).[citation needed]

Public schools

[edit]
Main article: Decatur City Schools

High schools

[edit]

Middle schools

[edit]
  • Decatur Middle School
  • Austin Middle School
  • Austin Junior High

Private schools

[edit]

Higher education

[edit]

Media

[edit]

Newspapers

[edit]

The Decatur Daily has been the only major newspaper based in the Decatur Metropolitan Area since 1912, and one of the few family owned newspapers in Alabama. It has an average daily circulation of 20,824 and a Sunday circulation of 23,840. The paper circulates in the morning to an area that includes Morgan County, Lawrence County, and Limestone County, and parts of Cullman County, and Winston County.[citation needed]

The Huntsville Times is the only other newspaper with a larger circulation in the Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area, and has been in circulation since 1996 to most area counties, when the Huntsville News closed. Before then, the News was the morning paper, and the Times was the afternoon paper. After the News closed, the Times remained an afternoon paper until 2004.[citation needed]

Cable/Phone

[edit]

Spectrum, AT&T and WOW! offer cable TV to Decatur. AT&T, Spectrum and WOW! offer phone service to Decatur. With AT&T, Huntsville and Madison are local calls (Madison County only), but Athens is long distance. Decatur comes within 3 miles (5 km) of Athens and touches Huntsville. AT&T has begun rolling out their fiber network as of 2018.

Infrastructure

[edit]

Transportation

[edit]

Air

[edit]

Decatur is served by two major airports. The Huntsville International Airport, in suburban Huntsville is the second busiest airport in Alabama, behind Birmingham International Airport. The city is also served by the busiest regional airport in Alabama, the Pryor Field Regional Airport.[38]

Roads

[edit]
Captain William J. Hudson "Steamboat Bill" Memorial Bridges

Decatur's main thoroughfares are U.S. Route 31 (6th Avenue), U.S. Route 72 Alternate (S.R. 20), State Route 24, and State Route 67. 6th Avenue begins as both U.S. 72 Alternate and U.S. 31, and the two routes split after being carried by the twin-span "Steamboat Bill" Hudson Memorial Bridge that crosses the Tennessee River at the north central part of town. SR 20/Alternate U.S. 72 continues west towards The Shoals and Florence. U.S. 31 connects the city to Athens in the north, and Cullman in the south. A portion of S.R. 67 is known as Beltline Road, and serves as a partial beltway around the city. Interstate 65 runs east of the city, and connects the area to Nashville in the north and Birmingham in the south. Interstate 565 begins in Limestone County northeast of the city, and connects to Huntsville.[citation needed] Transforming U.S. 72 Alternate into an extension of Interstate 565 into the city has been discussed in the past.[39]

Major highways
[edit]

Water (River)

[edit]

Large shipments can move from Decatur to the Atlantic Ocean via the Tennessee River to the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico. The United States builds some of its space launch vehicles in Decatur (United Launch Alliance vehicles only), and ships them to both Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg Air Force Base via this water route.[40]

Rail

[edit]

Decatur has two railroads, the Norfolk Southern Railway, and CSX Transportation (CSX) main line, the S&NA North Subdivision (Nashville to Birmingham). CSX operates a yard downtown. Norfolk Southern main line is the Memphis District East End. The line runs from Sheffield, Alabama, to Chattanooga, Tennessee. The rest of the line, west of Sheffield to Memphis, Tennessee, is the Memphis District West End. The line receives trackage rights in Stevenson, Alabama, from CSX on their Chattanooga Subdivision to Chattanooga.

Until 1971 the Decatur Union Depot was served by several Louisville and Nashville trains (Humming Bird, Pan-American and South Wind) originating in Chicago or Cincinnati and terminating at New Orleans or Miami, Florida, to the south. Amtrak from 1971 until 1979 operated the Floridian that made a station stop in Decatur. The Southern Railway's Tennessean served points to the east and west. The station is now a municipal museum.

Transit

[edit]

The North Central Alabama Regional Council of Governments operates NARCOG Transit, which provides demand-response service in the city. There is no fixed-route transit.

Public safety

[edit]
Decatur
Crime rates* (2022)
Violent crimes
Homicide12
Rape21
Robbery35
Aggravated assault175
Total violent crime243
Property crimes
Burglary181
Larceny-theft1,176
Motor vehicle theft157
Arson162
Total property crime1,676
Notes

*Number of reported crimes per 100,000 population.

2022 population: 57,922

Source: 2022 FBI UCR Data

The Public Safety Department consists of the Decatur Police Department and Decatur Fire & Rescue. The Public Safety annex is located at 4119 Old Highway 31 in the Flint Community at the south end of the city and houses the Fire Department's administrative offices. This is also the site of the fire and police training facilities. The Police and Fire Departments currently cover approx. 130 square miles (340 km2) in and around the city. Both the Decatur Police and Decatur Fire & Rescue are dispatched by the Morgan County E-911 Center.[citation needed]

The Decatur Police Department consists of approx. 140 officers, assigned to 4 divisions (Operations, Management Services, Criminal Investigations, & Administration). The current interim Chief of Police is Nadis Carlisle Jr.[41]

Decatur Fire & Rescue is an Advanced Life Support, full service department consisting of approx. 115 firefighters. The department currently runs 6 Engine Companies (with 3 in reserve), 2 Ladder Companies, 1 Heavy Rescue (which also responds as part of AL-TF3), 1 Brush Truck, 1 HazMat Unit, 1 Battalion Chief Vehicle, and several other staff and support vehicles out of 8 Fire Stations. The current Fire Chief is Tracy Thornton.

Decatur is also home to the Morgan County Rescue Squad, an all volunteer organization, who responds to water, cave and high angle rope rescues all throughout Morgan County. They operate multiple land vehicles, 4 response boats and several smaller vessels out of 1 station (also located in Flint) and 2 boat houses on the Tennessee River, with approximately 30–40 members.

Emergency medical services and healthcare

[edit]

Decatur is currently served by Decatur-Morgan EMS, the ambulance service for Decatur Morgan Hospital.[42] Air Evac Lifeteam provides aeromedical services for the city of Decatur and North Alabama.[citation needed]

Decatur is served by two hospitals, Decatur General Hospital and Parkway Medical Center. Decatur General Hospital is a 273-bed, general acute care hospital and a 64-bed behavioral medicine hospital making it the third largest employer in Morgan County. Decatur General is accredited by the Joint Commission and its medical staff consists of more than 200 physicians representing 20 specialties. Decatur General Hospital is designated as a level two trauma center by the Alabama Department of Public Health. Parkway Medical Center is a 120-bed hospital that is designated as a level three trauma center by the Alabama Department of Public Health. As of January 1, 2012, Huntsville Hospital is the full owner of Parkway Medical Center. Parkway was formally a private not-for-profit hospital until their purchase from the public Huntsville Hospital System. Huntsville Hospital is the region's referral center and also serves as North Alabama's level one trauma center. As of November 2010, Decatur General Hospital and Huntsville Hospital are affiliate hospitals, ensuring the continued tradition and excellence of public, not-for-profit health care in North Alabama.[citation needed]

Notable people

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Decatur, Alabama

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Decatur is a city in northern Alabama, United States, situated primarily in Morgan County with a portion extending into Limestone County along the Tennessee River. It serves as the county seat of Morgan County and the core of the Decatur, AL Metropolitan Statistical Area, which had an estimated population of 157,418 in 2023. The city proper had a population of 57,760 in 2023, reflecting modest growth from prior years. Incorporated on June 16, 1820, and named for U.S. Navy hero Stephen Decatur, the settlement originated as a river crossing known as Rhodes Ferry Landing, evolving into a strategic transportation and industrial hub due to its riverfront position and rail connections. Decatur's economy emphasizes manufacturing, including chemicals, metals, and aerospace components, bolstered by the Tennessee River port and proximity to major interstates like I-65, supporting logistics and employment in the region. Notable features include frequent rocket launches from the nearby Marshall Space Flight Center facilities operated by United Launch Alliance, contributing to its role in national defense and space industries.

History

Founding and Early Development

Decatur originated as a settlement known as Rhodes Ferry Landing in 1817, established around a ferry service operated by Dr. Henry W. Rhodes across the Tennessee River, which served as a key crossing for settlers moving westward from the Appalachian Mountains. The area's appeal stemmed from its fertile soil suitable for agriculture and the strategic river access facilitating trade and transportation. On June 16, 1820, the community was renamed Decatur in honor of U.S. Navy Commodore , reflecting the era's admiration for naval heroes following the War of 1812. The formally incorporated the town in 1826, solidifying its status as a burgeoning riverside hub. Early infrastructure included the construction of the Old State Bank in 1833, which housed the Decatur branch of the Alabama State Bank and represented one of the state's earliest financial institutions, though it ceased operations in 1842. Economic momentum accelerated in 1836 when Decatur was selected as the eastern terminus of the Tuscumbia, Courtland and Decatur Railroad, the first railroad constructed west of the , enhancing connectivity for exports and industrial goods via the . This rail linkage, combined with river boating, positioned Decatur as a vital transportation node, drawing settlers and commerce despite the absence of major urban centers nearby. By the mid-19th century, the town's development centered on , rudimentary , and , laying the groundwork for later expansion prior to the disruptions of the Civil War.

Civil War and Reconstruction

![Old State Bank, one of the few structures to survive the Civil War destruction in Decatur][float-right] Decatur's strategic location at the confluence of railroads and the made it a key target during the , leading to multiple occupations by both Confederate and Union forces, with the town changing hands at least eight times. Union troops burned the railroad bridge spanning the in August 1862 before abandoning the area. By spring 1864, Union commanders ordered the systematic destruction of much of the town to deny resources to Confederate forces, leaving only a handful of buildings intact, including the Old State Bank. The Battle of Decatur, occurring from October 26 to 29, 1864, as part of the Franklin-Nashville Campaign, exemplified the town's military significance. Confederate General sought to cross the with approximately 39,000 troops to sever Union supply lines to Nashville, but a Union garrison of about 3,000 men under Robert S. Granger, fortified in earthworks, repelled the assault after four days of skirmishing and exchanges. This engagement delayed Hood's advance and preserved Union control over vital transportation routes. Enslaved individuals in the area often fled to Union lines upon occupation, seeking emancipation amid the shifting control. During the , Decatur underwent gradual rebuilding, with surviving structures and new construction reflecting the period's economic recovery efforts. The Old Town area, initially devastated, attracted former slaves drawn by emerging industrial opportunities, leading to its resettlement as a working-class community. Political participation among freedmen emerged, including Burrell Lemons serving as Decatur's first Black during Reconstruction and later as the city's first Black . As white residents increasingly moved eastward across the railroad tracks, Old Town solidified as a hub for Black residents and laborers.

Industrial Expansion and Railroad Era

The Tuscumbia, Courtland and Decatur Railroad, initially chartered as the Tuscumbia Railway Company on January 16, 1830, and expanded under its new name in January 1832, initiated rail connectivity to Decatur with construction beginning in June 1831. The line's first segment from Tuscumbia to the opened in 1832, followed by extension to Decatur by the end of 1834, spanning 43 miles and bypassing the navigational challenges of Muscle Shoals on the river. As the first railroad west of the , it provided reliable year-round transport, elevating Decatur's role in regional commerce and marking it as an early southern rail hub. In 1836, Decatur was selected as the eastern terminus of this pioneering line, further integrating it with the for combined water-rail shipping and spurring initial economic activity. Pre-Civil War intersections of the Memphis & Charleston Railroad (predecessor to Southern) and Louisville & Nashville (L&N, now CSX) at Decatur amplified its strategic transport position, though wartime destruction left the city in ruins by 1865. Post-Reconstruction recovery accelerated in the late , when northern industrialists invested in rebuilding, establishing Decatur as a center through rail-enabled . The L&N Railroad opened extensive repair facilities in 1889, including 13 shops that employed 2,500 workers and drove significant population influx by the early 1900s. By 1900, these operations supported 1,400 employees with a monthly of $60,000, rising to $150,000 by 1915, forming the backbone of local industry and attracting ancillary businesses. This rail-centric expansion, complemented by the 1905 construction of the Southern Railway's Union Depot, solidified Decatur's identity as a key industrial node in the .

20th-Century Growth and Challenges

The consolidation of Decatur with the adjacent city of Albany (formerly New Decatur) in created a unified spanning both banks of the , enhancing administrative efficiency and spurring residential and commercial expansion amid ongoing railroad activity from the Louisville and Nashville line. This merger capitalized on the city's dual access to river transport and rail, positioning Decatur as a regional node for agricultural exports and emerging manufactures like and processing. Population figures reflected this momentum, with the city recording approximately 16,604 residents by the 1930 , up from smaller pre-consolidation counts driven by fertile soils and proximity to northern markets. Industrial momentum accelerated in the 1930s with the Tennessee Valley Authority's completion of Wheeler Dam in 1936, which generated hydroelectric power, controlled seasonal flooding, and deepened the river channel for barge traffic, enabling heavier shipments of raw materials and finished goods. The dam's infrastructure supported shoreline factories, including hosiery mills that employed hundreds in the early Depression era, contributing to a wartime surge in the 1940s as federal contracts for tubing and metal products—such as those from Wolverine Tube—bolstered local payrolls. By 1950, Decatur's population had reached 19,974, underscoring steady workforce influx tied to these utilities and defense-related output. Challenges persisted amid national downturns, including the Great Depression's unemployment spikes, which strained textile and mill operations despite infusions via TVA electrification. Labor unrest peaked during the 1934 General Textile Strike, which rippled through Alabama's mills—including Decatur's facilities—demanding wage hikes and an end to production speedups, though union efforts largely faltered against employer resistance and state intervention. Recurrent floods, such as the 1927 deluge submerging low-lying districts and the 1951 event damaging infrastructure across northern , highlighted vulnerabilities unmitigated until post-dam improvements, costing millions in crop losses and repairs. Post-World War II, Decatur grappled with relative stagnation as Huntsville's rocket and aerospace boom—fueled by —drew investment and talent, eclipsing Decatur's riverine industries and contributing to slower per-capita growth through the late century. Emerging chemical along the waterfront also sowed seeds of environmental strain, with unregulated effluents foreshadowing later contamination issues from wartime expansions.

Post-2000 Developments

In the early , Decatur experienced modest , with the increasing from 53,929 residents in 2000 to approximately 57,760 by 2023, reflecting a cumulative rise of about 7.8% amid slower expansion compared to regional peers. The broader Decatur metropolitan statistical area, encompassing Morgan and Limestone counties, saw its population grow from roughly 150,000 in 2000 to 156,924 in 2023, driven by steady but limited influxes tied to and sectors. Median household income in the city climbed to $59,831 by 2023, up from prior years, supported by in durable goods , which remains a of the local . Downtown revitalization emerged as a key focus post-2010, with investments in cultural and recreational infrastructure attracting visitors and fostering economic activity. Notable projects include the 2018 opening of the and expansions at the , which have drawn thousands annually and contributed to streetscape enhancements along 2nd Avenue and Bank Street. The Decatur Downtown Redevelopment Authority's 2021-2025 strategic plan prioritizes mixed-use developments, including a proposed trolley system, visitors center relocation, and farmers market upgrades, aiming to integrate riverfront assets with . These efforts align with the city's 2018 Comprehensive Plan, which emphasizes leveraging trails, arts venues, and the for sustainable growth while addressing stagnant household income and population targets. Recent infrastructure initiatives underscore ongoing commitments to expansion, including the approval in October 2025 of the $400 million South Brook mixed-use project on the former Decatur site, projected to generate $1 billion in impacts through residential, commercial, and recreational components. Concurrently, of an 80-room hotel and a 230-space parking deck with retail in proceeded, enhancing and accessibility. Transportation updates via the Decatur Area have incorporated federal funds into the Transportation Improvement Program, supporting road and utility enhancements amid the region's high exposure to flooding and risks, though no city-specific catastrophic events dominated the period. These developments reflect a deliberate pivot toward diversified, river-oriented economic resilience.

Geography

Location and Physical Features

Decatur occupies a position in northern Alabama, centered at approximately 34.606°N latitude and 86.983°W longitude. The city lies within the Tennessee River Valley, primarily in Morgan County, with a smaller portion extending into adjacent Limestone County to the north. As the county seat of Morgan County, Decatur's location facilitates its role as a regional hub, situated about 25 miles (40 km) southwest of Huntsville and roughly 20 miles east of the Mississippi state line. The physical landscape of Decatur is characterized by its proximity to the , where the city borders Wheeler Lake, a 67,100-acre reservoir extending 60 miles along the river and formed by the Wheeler Dam completed in 1936 by the . This reservoir influences local and provides a navigable that supports industrial and recreational activities. The terrain is predominantly flat to gently rolling, typical of the river valley, with elevations ranging from about 167 meters at the lowest points near the water to higher ground reaching up to 190 meters on average across the city area. Decatur covers a total land area of 54.16 square miles, with the urban layout shaped by the river's meanders and the impoundment of Wheeler Lake, which defines much of the southern boundary. The surrounding region features fertile alluvial soils conducive to , interspersed with forested areas and developed industrial zones along the waterfront. Minimal topographic relief contributes to occasional flooding risks from the , mitigated by federal dam management.

Climate and Environmental Factors

Decatur experiences a characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters, with annual average temperatures ranging from lows of about 31°F in to highs near 90°F in . The city receives approximately 54 inches of precipitation annually, distributed relatively evenly but peaking in winter months like December at around 5 inches, while summers see the least at about 3.5 inches; snowfall averages 2 inches per year, primarily in and . These patterns align with Köppen classification Cfa, influenced by the city's location in the , where the moderates temperatures but contributes to high levels often exceeding 70% year-round. The , bordering Decatur to the south, shapes local environmental dynamics, supporting biodiversity in areas like the nearby Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge while enabling industrial activities that have led to contamination issues. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as "forever chemicals" due to their persistence, have been detected at elevated levels in and the river near Decatur, stemming from historical discharges by companies including , which admitted to unlawful releases of related compounds like FBSA into the waterway. Tests in 2020 near a Decatur revealed PFAS concentrations up to 51,000 parts per trillion in flowing toward the river, far exceeding EPA health advisory levels of 70 parts per trillion for certain PFAS, prompting lawsuits and settlements totaling $35 million from emitters to affected water districts. These pollutants pose potential health risks including cancer and effects, as documented in peer-reviewed studies on PFAS exposure, though long-term local impacts require ongoing monitoring given the chemicals' environmental persistence. Flooding and tornadoes represent key environmental hazards, exacerbated by the river's floodplain location and regional severe weather patterns. The has historically flooded Decatur, with major events tied to heavy rainfall; the area faces above-average tornado risk, with the city experiencing impacts from outbreaks like the and more recent storms in 2023 that damaged structures including a marina. Alabama's tornado frequency, driven by Gulf moisture and dynamics, places Decatur in a high-risk corridor, with an earthquake index ranking it relatively low but still noting minor seismic activity from the nearby New Madrid fault system. Mitigation efforts, including levees and wildlife refuge management, aim to balance flood control with habitat preservation, though industrial legacies continue to challenge restoration.

Neighborhoods and Urban Layout


Decatur's urban layout is defined by its position along the Tennessee River, with primary development concentrated south of the river across Morgan and Limestone counties, encompassing approximately 55 square miles of land area. The historic downtown core, centered on Bank Street and 2nd Avenue, features a grid-pattern street network and serves as a mixed-use hub undergoing revitalization through initiatives like the Decatur Downtown Redevelopment Authority, established in 2004. Surrounding this core are residential neighborhoods, commercial strips along corridors such as 6th Avenue SE and the Beltline Road, and industrial zones clustered along the riverfront and rail lines, which together facilitate bulk shipping via port terminals like the Port of Decatur. Key historic neighborhoods include Old Decatur, platted in 1821 and rebuilt with Victorian-style homes after Civil War destruction, Albany (originally New Decatur, founded as a planned in 1887 and merged with Decatur in 1927), and Old Town, representing the city's earliest settlement boundaries. These districts, designated on the , emphasize pedestrian-friendly layouts near river access, museums, and parks like Delano Park, contrasting with outer areas featuring curvilinear streets and newer single-family subdivisions. Residential land use dominates, accounting for over 50% of developed acreage primarily in single-family structures, though aging housing stock and low recent —averaging 32 units annually from 2012 to 2016—have prompted programs for maintenance and infill development. Transportation infrastructure, including 604 miles of roads with 11 miles of interstates like I-65 and I-565 bisecting the city, both connects neighborhoods and creates barriers alongside the river and railroads. The five council districts, redrawn for electoral equity as of recent adjustments ensuring populations near 11,137 per district, overlay this layout to guide local governance and planning. Industrial riverfront dominance limits public recreation but supports economic hubs, while ongoing efforts target mixed-use riverfront redevelopment, including a $400 million project approved on October 20, 2025, to convert an 80-acre former site into a new residential neighborhood.

Demographics

Population Dynamics

The population of Decatur, Alabama, has grown modestly over the past several decades, reflecting patterns of industrial stability and regional migration rather than rapid expansion. U.S. Census Bureau data record 53,929 residents in the city as of April 1, 2000, increasing to 55,683 by April 1, 2010—a decennial gain of 3.3%—and further to 57,938 by April 1, 2020, for a 4.0% rise in the subsequent decade. This equates to an average annual growth rate of about 0.35% from 2000 to 2020, below the national average and indicative of constrained natural increase amid economic reliance on and proximity to larger Huntsville metro influences.
Census YearPopulationDecennial Change
200053,929-
201055,683+3.3%
202057,938+4.0%
Post-2020 estimates show continuation of this trend, with the city population at 57,760 in 2023, marking a 0.41% year-over-year increase from 2022, driven primarily by net domestic in-migration offsetting stagnant or declining natural growth. Alabama statewide data corroborate this dynamic, where natural decrease—exacerbated by fertility rates falling below replacement levels and an aging population—has been counterbalanced by migration inflows, though Decatur's growth lags behind faster-migrating southern metros. Projections anticipate a population of 58,703 by 2025, assuming sustained low-single-digit annual increments tied to employment in sectors like aerospace and chemicals. The Decatur metropolitan statistical area, encompassing Morgan and Limestone counties, mirrors this with 156,924 residents in 2023, up 0.45% from the prior year.

Racial, Ethnic, and Cultural Composition

According to the estimates for 2019-2023, Decatur's population of approximately 57,760 residents is racially composed as follows: 60.9% White alone, 23.4% Black or African American alone, 1.1% American Indian and Alaska Native alone, 0.5% Asian alone, 0.1% Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone, with the remainder including two or more races or other categories. constitute 56.7% of the total, reflecting a distinction from or Latino residents who may identify with any race. or Latino residents of any race make up 16.4% of the population, predominantly of origin (63.8% of the Hispanic subgroup), with smaller shares from Puerto Rican (6.5%), (3.2%), and other origins.
Race/EthnicityPercentageApproximate Number (2023 est.)
(Non-Hispanic)56.7%32,764
or African American (Non-Hispanic)22.1%12,769
Hispanic or Latino (any race)16.4%9,477
Two or More Races7.2%4,163
Other Race6.9%3,983
American Indian/Alaska Native1.1%635
Asian0.5%289
This table draws from ACS 5-year estimates, highlighting the majority population alongside substantial and growing Hispanic segments; foreign-born residents, largely from , comprise about 8-10% of the total, correlating with the Hispanic increase. Historically, Decatur's ethnic composition traces to its founding in by European-American settlers, with a population emerging post-Civil War through and industrial labor, forming communities like Old Town, recognized as the city's oldest African American enclave dating to the late . The Hispanic segment has expanded since the late , driven by employment in local industries such as poultry processing and manufacturing, though precise causal data on migration patterns remains limited to trends showing a rise from under 5% in 1990 to over 16% by 2020. Smaller cultural presences include a modest Jewish established in the mid- by Prussian immigrants, peaking at around 50 families by the early before declining due to assimilation and out-migration. Overall, cultural influences remain predominantly Southern Protestant, with no dominant non-Christian ethnic traditions per available demographic indicators.

Socioeconomic Indicators

The median household income in Decatur was $59,831 for the period 2019-2023, below the Alabama state median of approximately $62,000 and the national median of $79,466. Per capita income stood at $34,835 over the same period, reflecting lower individual earnings compared to state and national averages. The rate in Decatur was 12.8% in 2023, lower than the rate of 15.6% but indicative of persistent economic challenges in a with heavy reliance on . This rate represents a slight decline from prior years, with approximately 7,209 residents below the line. Educational attainment levels in Decatur lag behind state and national figures, with about 82% of adults aged 25 and older having completed high school or equivalent in recent estimates, compared to 87% statewide. Roughly 14.5% hold a or higher, while 7.4% have an ; these metrics correlate with limited access to higher-wage professional sectors. Unemployment in the Decatur averaged 2.6% in 2024, significantly below the national rate of around 4%, driven by stable in industry and . Labor force participation remains tied to blue-collar occupations, with accounting for a disproportionate share of jobs.
IndicatorDecatur Value (Recent)Alabama ComparisonNational Comparison
$59,831 (2019-2023)$62,000$79,466
Rate12.8% (2023)15.6%11.5%
High School or Higher~82% (25+ years)87%89%
Bachelor's or Higher14.5% (25+ years)26%34%
Rate2.6% (2024 MSA)3.0%4.0%

Economy

Key Industries and Employment

Decatur's economy centers on manufacturing, which dominates local employment with production occupations comprising 16.8 percent of the workforce in the metropolitan area as of May 2024, far exceeding the national figure of 5.7 percent. This sector's strength stems from the area's industrial heritage, access to the Tennessee River for logistics, and proximity to raw materials, fostering clusters in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, metals, chemicals, and food processing. The manufacturing industry directly employs over 14,000 workers in the Decatur MSA. Aerospace stands out as a high-growth subsector, anchored by United Launch Alliance's 1.6-million-square-foot assembly facility, which supports national defense and commercial launches. In July 2024, ULA announced a $300 million expansion of its Decatur operations to boost Vulcan production, projected to create 200 additional jobs. Other firms, including Hexcel and the newly opened Karman Space & Defense facility, contribute to this cluster, leveraging skilled labor in composites and systems. Primary metals and chemicals further bolster the industrial base, with Nucor Steel employing 767 workers in steel production and operating a facility focused on industrial chemicals and plastics with 788 employees. , exemplified by Wayne-Sanderson Farms' poultry operations (820 employees), adds diversity to manufacturing. , a subsidiary, leads private-sector employment with 1,400 workers producing refrigerators.
Major EmployerIndustryEmployees (approx.)
Appliances1,400
Wayne-Sanderson FarmsFood Processing820
CompanyChemicals/Plastics788
Steel DecaturPrimary Metals767
The Decatur MSA maintains a low unemployment rate of 2.4 percent as of August 2025, reflecting robust demand for industrial labor amid national averages above 4 percent. Morgan County hosts approximately 145 industries, including several operations, underscoring the region's competitive edge in attracting capital-intensive firms.

Major Employers and Trade

Major employers in Decatur, Alabama, are predominantly in , healthcare, , and , reflecting the city's industrial heritage along the . Manufacturing accounts for the largest share of employment, with over 5,000 workers in 2023, followed by retail trade (3,266) and (2,560). Key sectors include production, appliances, chemicals, and processing, supported by proximity to rail, highway, and river transport. facilities, such as those operated by , contribute specialized high-wage jobs in assembly and testing. Healthcare and public also rank highly, with Decatur Morgan Hospital and local school systems employing thousands. The following table lists select top employers in the Decatur-Morgan County area, based on recent employment figures from economic development reports:
EmployerIndustry/SectorApproximate Employees
Decatur Morgan HospitalHealthcare1,900
Decatur City SchoolsEducation1,445
Manufacturing (Appliances)1,400
Wayne FarmsPoultry Processing~1,000+
CompanyChemicals/Manufacturing788
Steel DecaturSteel Production767
Aerospace~700+
Trade in Decatur is facilitated by the Port of Decatur, an inland facility on the established in 1971, which handles over five million tons of freight annually. The port serves as a transshipment hub connected to the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway and the , supporting bulk commodities like , aggregates, chemicals, and manufactured for local industries. In the past 90 days as of recent records, the area processed around 955 import containers and 690 bills of lading, underscoring its role in regional supply chains despite being overshadowed by coastal ports. River access reduces transportation costs for exports from manufacturers like and GE, enabling competitive positioning in national and international markets, though trade volumes are sensitive to waterway maintenance and upstream demand fluctuations.

Recent Economic Initiatives and Challenges

In October 2025, the Decatur City Council unanimously approved the $400 million South Brook redevelopment project, transforming the 80-acre former site in south Decatur into a walkable mixed-use neighborhood featuring residential, commercial, and recreational elements. The initiative, developed by Land Innovations, is projected to generate $1 billion in construction-related economic activity and stimulate long-term local investment through improvements and job creation in development and services sectors. The Robotics Technology Park in Decatur advanced workforce training with the $30 million EV Technology Center, a 40,000-square-foot facility focused on electric vehicle assembly, battery technology, , and automation skills, with construction commencing in October 2024 and operations targeted for 2026. This public-private partnership, involving the Department of Commerce and AIDT, aims to equip 1,000 workers annually for high-tech roles amid regional auto industry expansion, building on the park's existing programs. In September 2025, the Frazier-White industrial site on Highway 20 received an $87,922 state grant for a comprehensive assessment to prepare it for and attract new tenants. Decatur's fiscal year 2025 general fund revenues increased 5.58% year-over-year through mid-year, supporting modest employee cost-of-living adjustments amid stable manufacturing employment. However, the city council approved a flat overall budget for 2025, incorporating a 3% raise for employees but reducing capital projects and cutting nonprofit allocations by 10% to manage fiscal constraints. The nine-month closure of Wilson Lock on the Tennessee River until June 2025 created barge backlogs, delaying cargo transit for Decatur's chemical, manufacturing, and export-dependent firms reliant on the inland waterway system. Rising construction costs have introduced uncertainty for ongoing infrastructure initiatives, including potential federal grant reductions that threatened $16 million for Bill Sims Bicycle Trail expansions earlier in 2025. Despite these pressures, Morgan County's labor force participation rate ranked among Alabama's highest in mid-2025, with statewide employment gains of 92,000 jobs from June 2024 to June 2025 bolstering regional resilience.

Government and Politics

Municipal Structure and Leadership

Decatur, Alabama, operates under a mayor-council form of government, established in October 1968, in which the mayor functions as the chief executive officer with authority to enforce municipal laws, veto ordinances, and oversee city departments, while the city council exercises legislative powers over budgets, zoning, and policy-making. The legislative body consists of five council members, each elected from a to staggered four-year terms, with responsibilities including approving appropriations and appointing certain boards. District boundaries were redrawn in prior years to address population disparities, with District 1 designated as the minority-majority district. Kent Lawrence, a retired businessman, assumed office as mayor on October 7, 2025, following his election on August 26, 2025, with 54% of the vote against three challengers, succeeding Tab Bowling who had served since 2016. The current city council, seated after the 2025 municipal elections, includes:
DistrictMemberNotes
1Terrance AdkinsElected August 26, 2025, with 56% of the vote.
2Kyle Dukes Pike; .
3Carlton McMastersRe-elected August 26, 2025.
4Pam WerstlerElected September 23, 2025, in runoff.
5Jacob Ladner; .
Efforts to transition to a council-manager system, including a 2010 favoring the change by a 5,004 to 4,475 margin, have not been implemented following legal challenges and council inaction, with a related dismissed in 2020.

Elections and Political Dynamics

Decatur's municipal elections are nonpartisan and occur every four years in late , with a elected and a seven-member city council representing five districts and two seats. Qualifying for candidates takes place through the city clerk's office, and runoffs are held six weeks later if no candidate secures a in the initial vote. in the 2025 election was approximately 15-20% of registered voters, consistent with historical municipal election patterns in cities of similar size, where participation remains low due to the absence of party primaries and focus on local issues like and . In the August 26, 2025, election, retired businessman and former city council member Kent Lawrence won the mayoralty outright with 52.3% of the vote, defeating council member Billy Jackson (42.8%) and two other candidates who received under 3% combined. Lawrence succeeded Tab Bowling, who had served since 2016 after defeating incumbent Bill Johnson in a runoff and was term-limited or chose not to seek re-election. City council results included Terrance Adkins securing District 1 with 48.7%, avoiding a runoff, while District 4 advanced to a September 23 runoff where Pam Werstler defeated Sarah French by 53.2% to 46.8%, amid reports of heated campaigning focused on district-specific concerns like and public safety. The council canvassed results on September 2, 2025, with no formal challenges raised. Politically, Decatur reflects the conservative lean of Morgan and counties, where registered Republicans outnumber Democrats by roughly 2:1, mirroring statewide trends of 55% Republican and 36% Democratic affiliation as of 2025. Municipal races emphasize pragmatic issues such as industrial recruitment, flood control along the , and partnerships with NASA-related facilities, rather than national partisan divides, though candidates often align with Republican-leaning priorities like and intervention. Historical mayoral contests, including Bowling's 2016 victory, have featured incumbents or business-oriented challengers prevailing over progressive-leaning opponents, with voter preferences driven by economic stability in a region dependent on and . Local media coverage, primarily from outlets like the Decatur Daily, highlights minimal partisan acrimony in city hall, attributing dynamics to cross-aisle on approvals and bonds.

Law Enforcement and Public Safety

Police Department Operations

The Decatur Police Department maintains responsibility for enforcing municipal ordinances and state laws, conducting investigations, and responding to service calls across the city's neighborhood zones. Operations are divided into specialized units to address patrol, traffic safety, criminal investigations, and administrative functions, with patrol organized into four shifts (A, B, C, and D) under the Operations Division led by Captain Jeff Clem. The department employs approximately 130 sworn officers, supporting over 10 specialty areas including canine units and school resource officers. Key operational components include the Criminal Investigation Division (CID), commanded by Captain George Silvestri, which handles property crimes, financial crimes, violent crimes, family services, vice and narcotics, and crime scene processing. Traffic enforcement falls under a dedicated unit supervised by Chris Moffett, focusing on accident investigations and patrol. Management Services oversees school resource officers, while Professional Standards, led by Selby De León, manages community complaints and officer accountability. The department emphasizes core values of loyalty, accountability, trust, and transparency, with policies outlined in a written directives manual covering ethics, , arrests, and practices. Under Chief Torry Mack, appointed following Todd Pinion's in February 2025, the department continues initiatives to build trust, including a tip line at (256) 341-INFO and weekly reports detailing calls for service and arrests. In fiscal year 2026, proposed budget adjustments include temporary cuts to officer positions to accommodate department-wide raises averaging 6% in the prior year, with plans to potentially restore them based on revenue. A third-party released in January 2025, involving interviews with over 50 residents and 53 employees, examined operational performance amid prior leadership transitions. The department pursues accreditation standards through the CALEA portal, prioritizing procedural compliance in community-oriented policing.

Notable Incidents and Reviews

In October 2023, Decatur police officer Mac Bailey Marquette fatally shot 39-year-old Steven Perkins during a confrontation at Perkins' home over a repossession attempt. Police stated Perkins brandished a toward officers and a driver, while and Ring footage showed Perkins retrieving a after warnings; Marquette was charged with in 2024, claiming , with his trial pending as of May 2025. The incident sparked protests, policy reforms including enhanced use-of-force training, and an independent audit of the department. In April 2025, 37-year-old John Scott Jr., experiencing a mental health crisis, was arrested after Decatur officers used a Taser and physical force; he was hospitalized for a week before dying on April 22. Video footage circulated showing the altercation, prompting the department to request investigations by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and FBI; Scott's family filed a $100 million lawsuit in September 2025 against Decatur, alleging excessive force by officers from multiple agencies. A third-party audit by Green Research and Technology, released January 23, 2025, examined over 300 hours of body camera footage and department records following the Perkins shooting. It identified patterns of improper arrests, including charging residents with disorderly conduct for profanity alone and obstruction for non-compliance without clear probable cause, violating Alabama statutes. The review criticized a lack of empathy in interactions, inadequate complaint processing with poor communication to complainants, and recommended de-escalation training, body camera policy updates, and better internal affairs transparency. City officials acknowledged the findings, with Police Chief Todd Pinion issuing a statement committing to reforms, though some council members expressed concern over systemic issues.

Education

K-12 Public Education

Decatur City Schools serves as the primary public K-12 education provider for the city, operating 20 schools including elementary, middle, and high schools for approximately 8,700 s from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The district maintains a student-teacher ratio of 16:1, with 70% of students identifying as minority (predominantly ) and 57% classified as economically disadvantaged. Governance falls under a city-elected , which oversees operations focused on academic excellence amid a diverse student body influenced by local and patterns. Performance metrics from the Alabama State Department of Education indicate steady but mixed results. The district earned a B grade (score of 86) on the 2022-2023 state report card, exceeding the statewide average, with an indicator score of 61.51; this dipped slightly to 85 for the 2023-2024 cycle. rates average 93%, reflecting effective retention efforts, while elementary proficiency stands at 47% in reading and 37% in math based on state assessments. High school outcomes include an average ACT score of 24 at Decatur High School, ranked 33rd in , though post-pandemic math recovery lags, with 2023 grade-level equivalents 0.64 below 2019 baselines.
MetricValue (Recent Data)Source
Enrollment~8,700 studentsUS News Education
Graduation Rate93% averageNiche
State Report Card Grade (2022-23)B (86)AL Dept. of Education
Elementary Reading Proficiency47%US News Education
Elementary Math Proficiency37%US News Education
These figures highlight strengths in graduation amid demographic pressures but underscore gaps in core subject mastery, attributable to factors like economic disadvantage and learning disruptions rather than systemic instructional failures alone.

Higher Education Institutions

Calhoun Community College is the primary higher education institution in Decatur, Alabama, functioning as a public community college within the Alabama Community College System. Its origins trace to the Decatur Trade School led by Dr. Carlton Kelley in 1942, with key developments including a 1946 move to Pryor Field for veteran training and a 1947 merger forming foundational elements from the Tennessee Valley State Technical School and State Junior College. A significant consolidation occurred in September 1965, merging prior institutions into State Technical Junior College and Technical School, later renamed Calhoun Community College. The college has expanded over decades, receiving $1 million in state funding in 1953, reaching 5,720 enrollment by 1981, surpassing 10,000 students in 2003 under its first female president Dr. Marilyn C. Beck, and breaking ground for a $30 million Advanced Technology Center in 2023. As Alabama's largest two-year college, Calhoun reported 9,119 students enrolled in Fall 2024, serving a diverse population through credit and non-credit programs. It maintains campuses in Decatur and Huntsville, the latter established in 1996 at Cummings Research Park to support and military-related starting in 1969. The institution emphasizes accessible , with facilities including the Chasteen Student Center (completed 1974) and the Alabama Center for the Arts Phase II (opened 2016). Calhoun offers over 150 programs, comprising associate of arts, associate of science, and associate of applied science degrees, alongside short-term certificates and training in areas such as , advanced , health sciences (e.g., and ), , fine arts, and collaborative . These align with regional economic needs, including workforce development in and , facilitating transfers to four-year universities or direct entry-level . The college's focus on hybrid and in-person delivery supports approximately 10,000 credit students annually, positioning it as the sixth-largest higher education entity in by enrollment.

Educational Outcomes and Challenges

Decatur City Schools, serving the majority of K-12 students in Decatur, reported a four-year adjusted cohort graduation rate of 93% for the 2022-2023 school year, surpassing the state average of approximately 89% but trailing national figures around 86-87%. Academic proficiency rates remain below national benchmarks, with 2022 data showing 30.29% of students proficient in mathematics, 44.1% in English language arts, and 30% in science, compared to Alabama state averages of roughly 24% in math, 43% in reading, and 29% in science. The district's overall accountability score improved to a B (84 out of 100) in the 2022 state report card, driven by gains in graduation rates and college/career readiness, where 44.48% of graduates met benchmarks in 2023, exceeding state medians in select indicators. However, post-pandemic recovery has lagged, with average math scores dropping to 1.36 grade levels below the 2019 national average by 2023, reflecting broader disruptions in learning continuity. Socioeconomic factors pose significant hurdles, as Decatur's student population includes a high proportion from low-income households—over 70% economically disadvantaged—correlating with persistent achievement gaps, particularly in math and where proficiency trails state levels by 5-10 percentage points in elementary and middle grades. Poverty-driven absenteeism and limited home resources exacerbate these disparities, as empirical studies link family to and academic persistence independent of school quality. The district has outperformed state averages in English proficiency in recent years, suggesting targeted interventions like reading coaches yield causal benefits, but math gains remain incremental despite reforms. Teacher shortages represent a core operational challenge, with Decatur City Schools facing vacancies in critical areas like and STEM subjects, mirroring statewide deficits where rural-industrial districts like Decatur struggle to attract certified educators amid competitive salaries elsewhere. Initiatives such as the Teach in Bama program aim to pipeline local college students into teaching roles, but retention issues persist due to burnout and inadequate compensation, with Alabama's average teacher salary ranking near the bottom nationally at around $54,000 in 2023. Aging infrastructure and funding constraints further strain resources; while Alabama's 2023 Choose Act reallocates funds toward high-poverty students (adding 2.25% base funding for such cohorts), implementation delays limit immediate impact, prioritizing weighted allocations over uniform per-pupil increases. These factors causally undermine instructional consistency, as understaffed classrooms correlate with lower student engagement and proficiency in longitudinal data.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Road and Highway Systems

Decatur is served by a network of interstate highways, U.S. routes, and state highways that facilitate north-south and east-west connectivity. (I-65), a major north-south corridor connecting the Gulf Coast to the , passes approximately four miles east of Decatur and includes bridges over the that opened in 1973. This interstate parallels U.S. Route 31 (US 31), a four-lane divided highway that runs north-south through the city, linking Decatur to Hartselle and further connections southward toward Birmingham and Montgomery. Interstate 565 (I-565), a 22-mile east-west spur, originates at I-65 and U.S. 72 Alternate in Decatur, providing direct access to Huntsville and its international airport before terminating at U.S. Route 72. U.S. 72 Alternate, concurrent with Alabama State Route 20 (AL 20), serves as the primary east-west artery through Decatur, forming part of the route between Memphis, Tennessee, and Atlanta, Georgia. Alabama State Route 67 (AL 67), a 47-mile route, functions as a western perimeter business road around Decatur, connecting to U.S. Route 231 and supporting local commerce and bypass traffic. Local road maintenance in Decatur is prioritized by the city, with resurfacing and cleaning coordinated across departments including public works. In fiscal year 2025, the Alabama Department of Transportation allocated $27 million for resurfacing Decatur's main highways, including segments of Beltline Road between US 31 and AL 24. Additional projects, such as the resurfacing of Beltline Road from AL 24 to AL 20, are scheduled for fiscal year 2026 starting October 1, 2025. These efforts address wear from industrial traffic and population growth in Morgan and Limestone Counties.

Waterways and Ports

Decatur lies along the , where the waterway forms Wheeler Lake, a 65,000-acre reservoir extending approximately 74 miles from Guntersville Dam downstream to Wheeler Dam near Rogersville. This segment of the , managed by the (TVA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), supports commercial navigation via the Wheeler Navigation Lock at river mile 274.9, which handles barge traffic measuring 1,200 feet long by 110 feet wide with a 9-foot draft. The lake's controlled water levels enable year-round freight movement, connecting inland industries to broader river systems reaching the and Rivers. The Port of Decatur, established in 1971 and owned by Parker Towing Company, operates as one of the largest privately held public terminals on the Tennessee River, processing dry bulk commodities like coal and aggregates, liquid cargoes, and general freight. It manages a substantial share of the over 5 million short tons of river cargo transiting Decatur annually, supported by on-site services including tankerman operations, bilge pumping, and inspections. Complementary infrastructure includes Watco's Decatur River Port, offering 210,000 square feet of covered warehouse space with Norfolk Southern rail access. The , formed in April 1982, coordinates industrial development along 16.7 acres of Tennessee River frontage, including the State Docks facility with 250 feet of dock length, nine mooring cells, and 825 feet of rail track for multimodal transfers. These assets underpin Decatur's role as a logistics hub, facilitating efficient bulk transfer for regional and while leveraging the inland waterway's cost advantages over highways or rail for heavy loads.

Air, Rail, and Public Transit

Decatur lacks a commercial airport within city limits and relies on (HSV), located 19 miles northeast in , for scheduled passenger flights; the facility handles domestic services from carriers including , Delta, and United. Local general aviation operations are supported by Pryor Field Regional Airport (DCU/KDCU), a public-use facility in nearby Decatur serving the western Huntsville-Decatur area with runways suitable for small aircraft, maintenance, and flight training but no commercial passenger service. Rail transport in Decatur centers on freight services, with operating its primary east-west mainline through the city, connecting to major U.S. terminals, and providing additional access via interchanges that position Decatur as a hub for intermodal and operations. No active passenger rail service, such as , operates to or from Decatur, though a historic Southern Railway station built in 1904–1905 once facilitated passenger travel before its decommissioning. Public transit options are limited to demand-responsive services operated by NARCOG Transit (formerly MCATS), which provides door-to-door rides for residents of any age within Decatur's , including handicap-accessible vehicles, at a standard fare of $2 per one-way trip; service extends to nearby areas like Hartselle and but requires advance scheduling via phone at 256-580-2088. No fixed-route bus system exists, reflecting the area's emphasis on personal vehicles and proximity to regional highways.

Culture, Recreation, and Media

Parks, Tourism, and Attractions

Decatur operates 27 developed city parks and 17 playgrounds, offering spaces for outdoor activities such as playground use, sports, and picnicking. The Parks and Recreation Department oversees four community recreation centers, an indoor swimming pool, an outdoor pool, and facilities supporting athletics including 46 lighted tennis courts, soccer fields, softball and baseball complexes, and a year-round ice rink. Point Mallard Park functions as a primary recreational and hub, encompassing a , campground, trails, and arena, situated along the to facilitate activities like , , , and . The adjacent Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge covers 35,000 acres, drawing thousands of wintering waterfowl annually while conserving habitats for 12 federally endangered or , with opportunities for , trails, and birding. Tourism in Decatur emphasizes its location, supporting outdoor pursuits and historic sites. The Old State Bank, completed in 1833 as the branch of Alabama's state bank, represents the state's oldest surviving bank structure and served as a Civil War hospital, now preserved as a highlighting . The Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic, held annually over weekend at Point Mallard Park, ranks among the Southeast's largest free balloon events, attracting over 60 balloons for competitions, tethered rides, a night glow, live music, crafts, and vehicle shows.

Local Media and Cultural Events

The primary local newspaper in Decatur is The Decatur Daily, which has served the region since 1916 and provides coverage of news, sports, and community events. Television news for Decatur is largely supplied by Huntsville-based affiliates of the major networks, including WAFF (), WHNT News 19 (), WAAY 31 (ABC), and WBRC (), alongside Network and stations. Local radio options include public stations like WLRH 89.3 FM in Huntsville, which recently discontinued National Public Radio programming on October 1, 2025, due to federal funding reductions, affecting regional listeners. Decatur hosts numerous annual cultural events emphasizing arts, music, and traditions. The River Clay Fine , a juried event featuring local and national artists, occurs on the fourth weekend of October in downtown Decatur, with the 2025 edition scheduled for October 25-26. The Daikin Festival includes live entertainment, rides, Japanese cultural exhibits, and an art contest, drawing family audiences. Other recurring festivals encompass the Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic, the Morgan County Fair, the Carnegie Carnival preceding Fat Tuesday, and the River City , which highlight regional heritage and creative expression. These events are supported by local venues offering Broadway musicals, concerts, and family-oriented programming.

Notable Residents

Mae Carol Jemison, born in Decatur in 1956, is a physician, , and former who became the first African American woman to travel to space, serving as a mission specialist on the Endeavour's flight in September 1992. Dean Carroll Jones, born January 25, 1931, in Decatur, was an actor renowned for his roles in films such as (1968) and That Darn Cat! (1965), as well as Broadway productions including the original cast of Stephen Sondheim's (1970). Lucas York Black, born November 29, 1982, in Decatur, is an actor known for portraying Sean Boswell in the franchise, Chris Kyle's childhood friend in (2014), and Special Agent Christopher LaSalle on the television series NCIS: New Orleans (2014–2018). Philip Michael Rivers, born December 8, 1981, in Decatur, is a retired quarterback who played 17 seasons, primarily with the and , amassing 63,440 passing yards and earning selection to eight Pro Bowls.

References

  1. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/CombinedHistoricWalkingDrivingTours.pdf
  2. https://www.visitdecatural.org/decatur-now-and-then
  3. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/live-work/decatur-then/
  4. https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=28209
  5. https://issuu.com/visitdecatural/docs/dcvb_history_8-17
  6. https://www.civilwarmonitor.com/decatur-alabama-a-battlefield-of-the-imagination/
  7. https://www.apr.org/arts-life/2014-08-03/the-battle-of-mobile-bay-decatur
  8. https://encyclopediaofalabama.org/article/battle-of-decatur/
  9. https://www.visitdecatural.org/battle-for-decatur
  10. https://www.appalachianhistory.net/2014/09/new-exhibit-civil-war-morgan-county-al.html
  11. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/departments/historic-preservation-commission/
  12. https://msnha.una.edu/decaturs-old-town-holds-community-stories/
  13. https://whnt.com/community/black-history-month/old-town-in-decatur-serves-as-forgotten-african-american-history/
  14. https://hiddenspaces.org/old-town-decatur/
  15. https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/the-tuscumbia-courtland-decatur-railroad-transportation-during-the-cherokee-removal-1837-1839.htm
  16. https://hawkinsrails.net/preservation/dhud/dhud.html
  17. https://encyclopediaofalabama.org/article/decatur-union-depot-museum/
  18. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/AlbanyHistoricWalkingDrivingTour.pdf
  19. https://www2.census.gov/library/publications/decennial/1950/population-volume-1/vol-01-05.pdf
  20. https://www2.census.gov/library/publications/decennial/1900/bulletins/demographic/65-population-incorporated-places.pdf
  21. https://tva.com/energy/our-power-system/hydroelectric/wheeler
  22. https://www.facebook.com/DecaturALHistoricPreservationCommission/posts/do-you-know-the-story-of-decaturs-own-cotton-queen-lelia-seton-wilder-edmundsonb/914106167423378/
  23. https://www2.census.gov/library/publications/decennial/1950/pc-02/pc-2-11.pdf
  24. https://alabamanewscenter.com/2018/07/17/day-alabama-history-alabama-textile-makers-call-strike-2/
  25. https://pubs.usgs.gov/wsp/1227a/report.pdf
  26. https://www.biggestuscities.com/city/decatur-alabama
  27. https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/DCTPOP
  28. https://datausa.io/profile/geo/decatur-al
  29. https://decaturdowntown.org/investing/economic-impact/
  30. https://decaturdowntown.org/investing/development-focus-areas/
  31. https://onedecatur.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/OneDecatur_FinalPlan_180205_compressed.pdf
  32. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/decatur/south-brook-development-to-generate-1-billion-construction-impact/article_94e7dc20-f943-4d74-9b67-27281255c9ef.html
  33. https://www.dcc.org/development/
  34. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/MPO-Agenda-and-Meeting-Notice-6-5-25.pdf
  35. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/departments/planning-department/long-range-plan/
  36. https://www.topozone.com/alabama/morgan-al/city/decatur-2/
  37. https://www.britannica.com/place/Decatur-Alabama
  38. https://fishalabama.org/lakes/wheeler-lake/
  39. https://en-ca.topographic-map.com/map-th72dn/Decatur/
  40. https://www.latlong.net/place/decatur-al-usa-25981.html
  41. https://www.whereig.com/usa/cities/decatur-location-map-al.html
  42. https://weatherspark.com/y/14618/Average-Weather-in-Decatur-Alabama-United-States-Year-Round
  43. https://www.bestplaces.net/climate/city/alabama/decatur
  44. https://web.uri.edu/steep/3m-admits-to-unlawful-release-of-pfas-in-alabama/
  45. https://www.alreporter.com/2020/06/25/high-levels-of-chemicals-in-groundwater-at-decatur-landfill-concerns-environmental-group-adem/
  46. https://theintercept.com/2020/08/23/pfas-3m-decatur-alabama/
  47. https://www.al.com/news/huntsville/2015/10/decatur_companies_leaking_canc.html
  48. http://www.usa.com/decatur-al-natural-disasters-extremes.htm
  49. https://ema.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/morgancountycompleteplan.pdf
  50. https://decaturdowntown.org/about/
  51. https://historicdecatur.org/
  52. https://positivelydecatur.com/stepping-back-in-time-your-guide-to-the-decaturs-historic-districts/
  53. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/departments/council-districts-map/
  54. https://clearinghouse-umich-production.s3.amazonaws.com/media/doc/148205.pdf
  55. https://www.waff.com/2025/10/20/decatur-city-council-approves-400-million-redevelopment-project/
  56. https://www.al.com/news/2025/01/alabama-faces-a-demographic-cliff-as-deaths-surpass-births.html
  57. https://cber.culverhouse.ua.edu/2025/03/13/in-migration-continues-to-drive-alabama-counties-population-growth-in-2024/
  58. https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/alabama/decatur
  59. https://datausa.io/profile/geo/decatur-al-31000US19460
  60. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/decaturcityalabama/HSD410223
  61. https://www.point2homes.com/US/Neighborhood/AL/Decatur-Demographics.html
  62. https://www.alabama-demographics.com/decatur-demographics
  63. https://www.neilsberg.com/insights/decatur-al-population-by-race/
  64. https://www.isjl.org/alabama-decatur-encyclopedia.html
  65. https://censusreporter.org/profiles/16000US0120104-decatur-al/
  66. https://www.city-data.com/poverty/poverty-Decatur-Alabama.html
  67. https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/LAUMT011946000000003A
  68. https://www.bls.gov/eag/eag.al_decatur_msa.htm
  69. https://www.bls.gov/regions/southeast/news-release/occupationalemploymentandwages_decatur.htm
  70. https://businessalabama.com/spotlight-on-limestone-morgan-counties-economic-engines/
  71. https://www.mceda.org/
  72. https://www.areadevelopment.com/newsitems/7-24-2024/united-launch-alliance-decatur-alabama.shtml
  73. https://www.indeed.com/companies/best-Aerospace-&-Defense-companies-in-Decatur%2C-AL
  74. https://karman-sd.com/news/karman-space-defense-officially-opens-its-new-decatur-facility/
  75. https://www.dcc.org/development/top-20-employers/
  76. https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/DECA401UR
  77. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/2023-ACFR-City-of-Decatur-AL-with-Single-Audit-.pdf
  78. https://morgancounty-al.gov/community/businesses/
  79. https://www.mceda.org/facts-maps/top-employers
  80. https://www.portofdecatur.net/
  81. https://www.portofdecatur.net/about/facts-and-figures
  82. https://www.importinfo.com/united-states/alabama/decatur
  83. https://www.watco.com/service/terminals/decatur-riverport-al/
  84. https://256today.com/decatur-city-council-approves-400m-south-brook-development-paving-way-for-major-transformation/
  85. https://www.madeinalabama.com/2024/10/alabama-leaders-kick-off-ev-technology-center-project-to-boost-training/
  86. https://www.al.com/business/2023/11/30-million-electric-vehicle-training-center-planned-for-decatur.html
  87. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/decatur/decatur-site-receives-grant-for-assessment-study/article_b6911010-e805-4518-82ed-8f39f6ca252e.html
  88. https://www.facebook.com/decaturdaily/posts/decaturs-fiscal-2025-general-fund-revenue-has-shown-a-558-increase-over-last-yea/1296393275824513/
  89. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/decatur/council-approves-flat-2025-budget-with-3-cola/article_52bf70d8-7787-11ef-afb5-238cd190b2b0.html
  90. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/decatur/wilson-lock-reopening-easing-decatur-industries-pain/article_df10a43c-e219-4ea1-a189-7252384499fa.html
  91. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/many-city-projects-moving-forward-045900468.html
  92. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/decatur/city-could-lose-16-million-of-bike-trail-grant-to-doge-cuts/article_30cc93d0-525e-402b-a748-7effca6095d5.html
  93. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/local/local-labor-participation-among-best-in-the-state/article_9568f645-8a71-4369-859a-76af699d6a66.html
  94. https://www.govhrusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Brochure-Decatur-AL-Dir-Planning-Updated-6-27-25.pdf
  95. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/2005_CAFR.pdf
  96. https://www.facebook.com/groups/357403931369459/posts/2191126477997186/
  97. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/departments/council-members/
  98. https://www.waff.com/2025/08/27/kent-lawrence-elected-new-mayor-decatur/
  99. https://www.al.com/news/2025/08/retired-businessman-will-lead-decatur-runoff-needed-in-1-district.html
  100. https://www.waaytv.com/news/results-kent-lawrence-voted-mayor-of-decatur-terrance-adkins-wins-district-1-city-council-seat/article_60f5a59e-3737-4d91-b40b-c94b5434d09f.html
  101. https://whnt.com/news/decatur/terrance-adkins-wins-city-council-district-1-race-in-decatur/
  102. https://www.waff.com/2025/09/24/decatur-elects-city-council-district-4-seat/
  103. https://www.rocketcitynow.com/article/news/local/werstler-claims-victory-in-decatur-dist-4-city-council-runoff/525-5c7ab9d0-cc8f-40ba-bad7-aafebb059104
  104. https://whnt.com/news/decatur/decatur-city-council-president-members-say-emotional-farewell-on-final-day/
  105. https://www.waff.com/story/38519277/decatur-council-pushed-to-honor-referendum-change-form-of-government/
  106. https://www.rocketcitynow.com/article/news/local/decatur-lawsuit-mayor-council-council-manager-dismissed/525-596e3f3f-ae59-48f7-9117-84ad6e8f04eb
  107. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/departments/city-clerk/municipal-election-information-candidates/
  108. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/departments/city-clerk/voting-municipal-election/
  109. https://whnt.com/news/decatur/results-decatur-municipal-elections/
  110. https://www.rocketcitynow.com/article/news/local/kent-lawrence-poised-to-claim-outright-win-in-decatur-mayors-race/525-bef9543c-e4ca-42a7-a430-543a03cf9435
  111. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/decatur/election-results-now-official-despite-some-questions/article_603d9796-3de2-46b7-96b4-62b8ac10184a.html
  112. https://www.sos.alabama.gov/alabama-votes/voter/election-data
  113. https://bestneighborhood.org/conservative-vs-liberal-map-decatur-al/
  114. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/decatur/lawrence-wins-decatur-mayors-race-without-a-runoff/article_9641d1f2-e5de-4c04-9f01-c87d01933f50.html
  115. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/departments/police-department/
  116. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/departments/police-department/contact/
  117. https://www.linkedin.com/company/decaturalpd
  118. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/20200618-Written-Directives-Manual_Reduced_1-1.pdf
  119. https://whnt.com/news/decatur/todd-pinion-stepping-down-as-decatur-police-chief/
  120. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/decatur/city-budget-would-cut-decatur-police-positions-add-them-back-later-if-possible/article_e2f49640-77c6-430f-bdfc-a8d1a5a6184c.html
  121. https://www.waff.com/2025/01/23/third-party-review-decatur-police-department-released/
  122. https://alabamareflector.com/2024/10/14/one-year-after-decatur-mans-death-at-hands-of-police-activism-and-legal-battles-continue/
  123. https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/timeline-two-years-later-know-013646893.html
  124. https://alabamareflector.com/2025/01/24/decatur-police-department-review-calls-for-improved-communication-complaints-process/
  125. https://www.al.com/crime/2025/05/former-decatur-police-officer-facing-murder-charge-accuses-judge-of-gross-abuse-of-discretion.html
  126. https://apnews.com/article/alabama-decatur-police-john-scott-5f209b96d9b128fc9fe72f9ca261a9c9
  127. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tpwt6_F4aoE
  128. https://www.facebook.com/DecaturALPD/videos/the-city-of-decatur-is-aware-of-a-video-circulating-on-social-media-involving-th/600419069695114/
  129. https://www.rocketcitynow.com/article/news/local/family-sues-decatur-priceville-morgan-co-sheriff-claiming-brutal-police-force-led-to-sons-death/525-bbbb8bf3-8aaa-4aa2-819f-e21ae0a1f4c4
  130. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/third-party-independent-review-of-the-decatur-police-department/
  131. https://www.al.com/news/2025/01/decatur-police-improperly-charged-residents-report-finds.html
  132. https://whnt.com/news/decatur/city-of-decatur-to-release-third-party-review-of-police-department-thursday/
  133. https://apnews.com/article/decatur-alabama-steve-perkins-police-department-investigation-4f1005f278298a3335e5e327fda1370f
  134. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtBIQbTS7M0
  135. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/decatur/councilman-very-troubled-by-findings-of-independent-police-review/article_55b7ec8e-d2bd-11ef-a7df-7357d2c94b11.html
  136. https://www.usnews.com/education/k12/alabama/districts/decatur-city-103579
  137. https://www.publicschoolreview.com/alabama/decatur-city-school-district/101170-school-district
  138. https://www.dcs.edu/
  139. https://statereportcard.alsde.edu/OverallScorePage.aspx?ReportYear=2023&SystemCode=127&SchoolCode=0000
  140. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/decatur/decatur-city-schools-increases-report-card-score-beats-state-average/article_0084296d-3102-59cb-9085-b4f51a8b6da4.html
  141. https://www.hartselleenquirer.com/2025/01/08/school-districts-morgan-county-score-average-report-card/
  142. https://www.niche.com/k12/d/decatur-city-schools-al/
  143. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/alabama/districts/decatur-city/decatur-high-school-125
  144. https://educationrecoveryscorecard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/report_AL_0101170_decatur-city.pdf
  145. https://calhoun.edu/about/history/
  146. https://catalog.calhoun.edu/history-of-calhoun-community-college
  147. https://calhoun.edu/wp-content/uploads/Enrollment-updated-04-15-25.pdf
  148. https://calhoun.edu/programs-training/explore-academic-programs/
  149. https://calhoun.edu/
  150. https://calhoun.edu/about/fast-facts/
  151. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/decatur/decatur-schools-math-proficiency-still-way-low-but-improving/article_e75cbdd7-4b81-5cf0-8ee9-8707163e6b48.html
  152. https://statereportcard.alsde.edu/OverallScorePage.aspx?ReportYear=2022&SystemCode=127&SchoolCode=0000
  153. https://governor.alabama.gov/assets/2023/12/Governors-Commission-on-Teaching-and-Learning-Report-Release.pdf
  154. https://www.waaytv.com/news/huntsville/decatur-city-schools-not-alone-in-facing-major-teacher-shortage/article_cbe280ff-987b-592f-bb43-ca426e62760c.html
  155. https://aldailynews.com/mixed-progress-on-alabama-teacher-shortages-some-gains-many-gaps/
  156. https://www.yahoo.com/news/teach-bama-program-gets-local-124000403.html
  157. https://www.al.com/news/2025/08/decatur-school-board-race-sees-one-contested-race-two-confirmed-new-board-members.html
  158. https://alabamareflector.com/2025/07/01/alabamas-new-public-school-funding-model-could-take-years-to-see-impact/
  159. https://abc3340.com/news/local/crisis-in-the-classroom-town-hall-the-path-forward-for-alabamas-schools
  160. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/business/transportation-infrastructure/
  161. https://www.facebook.com/100066518296330/posts/i-65-bridges-at-decatur-opened-1973/887628820131053/
  162. https://www.mceda.org/business-adv/transportation
  163. https://www.interstate-guide.com/i-565-al/
  164. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/live-work/transportation-roads/
  165. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/morgan_county/decatur/lots-of-new-asphalt-coming-to-decatur-highways/article_46008372-76ca-11ef-8f13-135fe3ab06a5.html
  166. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/local/state-updates-paving-plans-and-road-projects/article_708e6884-e0ff-46a6-91b3-2301c9d7b0fd.html
  167. https://www.dot.state.al.us/maps/pdf/surveyMapping/HFC/regno/52-DecaturMPO.pdf
  168. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g30477-d5887961-Reviews-Wheeler_Lake-Decatur_Alabama.html
  169. https://www.lrd.usace.army.mil/Missions/Projects/Article/3642802/wheeler-navigation-lock/
  170. https://www.irpt.net/map-location/parker-towing-decatur/
  171. https://www.portofdecatur.net/about/facilities-and-services
  172. https://www.unisco.com/railyards/locations/decatur-al
  173. https://www.mceda.org/port-authority
  174. https://www.mceda.org/port-authority/state-docks
  175. https://www.travelmath.com/nearest-airport/Decatur%2C%2BAL
  176. https://www.aa.com/i18n/travelInformation/destinationInformation/hsv-airport.jsp
  177. https://flydcu.com/
  178. http://www.airnav.com/airport/KDCU
  179. https://www.portofdecatur.net/about/transportation-network
  180. https://www.narcog.org/serving-communities/transit
  181. https://benefitscheckup.org/program/al_decatur_morgan_county_area_transp
  182. https://www.icarol.info/ResultDetails.aspx?org=84123&agencynum=39177889
  183. https://www.narcog.org/images/HSCTP_2020_Final.pdf
  184. https://www.decaturalabamausa.com/play/parks/
  185. https://www.decaturalabamausa.com/departments/parks-recreation/
  186. https://www.decaturalabamausa.com/play/athletics/
  187. https://www.decaturalabamausa.com/departments/point-mallard/
  188. https://www.decaturalabamausa.com/play/outdoor-recreation/
  189. https://www.fws.gov/refuge/wheeler
  190. https://www.visitdecatural.org/
  191. https://www.decaturalabamausa.com/play/old-state-bank/
  192. https://encyclopediaofalabama.org/article/old-state-bank/
  193. https://www.alabamajubilee.net/
  194. https://alabama.travel/upcoming-events/alabama-jubilee-hot-air-balloon-festival-3
  195. https://www.decaturdaily.com/
  196. https://decaturmorgancounty.com/our-community/local-media-contacts
  197. https://www.decaturdaily.com/news/local/
  198. https://riverclay.org/
  199. https://www.visitdecatural.org/events
  200. https://www.visitdecatural.org/annual-events---festivals
  201. https://www.cityofdecatural.com/play/arts-entertainment/
  202. https://encyclopediaofalabama.org/article/decatur/
  203. https://encyclopediaofalabama.org/article/dean-jones/
  204. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0427894/
  205. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0085407/
  206. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/R/RivePh00.htm
  207. https://ashof.org/inductees/philip-rivers/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.