| AUGUST NEWS:INVESTING IN THE COMMUNITYNARCOG has been busy planning for community events, attending conferences and meetings, and securing grant awards. Check out what we’ve been doing in August!Visit our Website |
| Trinity Secures $148k for Park Project |
| The Town of Trinity has been awarded $148,111 through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to support the renovation of Kimbrel Park, a well-loved community space in a residential area of town.This project will transform the existing 1.12-acre playground into a modern, inclusive recreational area designed to better serve local families. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE |  |
| Hike, Paddle, Climb, Play: NATR Fest has it all! |
| With cooler weather approaching, it’s the perfect time to hike, explore greenways, go camping, or cast a fishing line, all without the summer heat. Whether you’re looking to try something new or revisit an old favorite, fall is the ideal season to get outside. To help you make the most of it, North Alabama Trails and Recreation (NATR) is hosting its Annual NATR Fest on Saturday, September 13, from 9 AM to 2 PM at Point Mallard Park in Decatur. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE |  |
| EDAA Gathers State Leaders for Summer Conference |
| The Economic Development Association of Alabama (EDAA) hosted its highly anticipated 2025 Summer Conference from July 27–30 at The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa in Point Clear, Alabama. The event brought together economic development professionals, public officials, private partners, and community leaders for a dynamic program centered on innovation, collaboration, and Alabama’s continued economic growth. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE |  |
| Stronger Together: Manufacturing Leaders Unite in Hartselle |
| The Hartselle Area Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its Annual State of Manufacturing event, a gathering that offered an inside look at the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the manufacturing industry here in North Alabama and beyond.The event brought together industry leaders, educators, workforce partners, and policymakers to discuss the economic impact of manufacturing, workforce development needs, and the innovations driving the sector forward. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE |  |
| Governor Ivey Designates North Alabama STEM Center |
| NARCOG attended the Cook Museum of Natural Science’s special Gratitude Luncheon honoring Governor Kay Ivey and expressing sincere appreciation for her recent designation of the Museum as the North Alabama STEM Center.During the luncheon, the Cook Museum formally announced a $29.5 million expansion, with $20 million in private donations and $9.5 million from the state. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE |  |
| In Memoriam: Celeste Stroup |
| It is with heartfelt sadness that we share the passing of Celeste Stroup, retired Director of Finance at NARCOG, on August 1, 2025. Celeste devoted 34 years of outstanding service to our organization, earning the respect and admiration of all who had the privilege to work alongside her. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE |  |
| NARCOG Transit: Serving Decatur with Reliable Transportation |
| At NARCOG Transit, we’re committed to helping individuals across the City of Decatur get where they need to go safely, affordably, and on time. Our services operate Monday through Friday, from 7 AM to 5 PM, offering reliable transportation for errands, appointments, work, and more. You might’ve noticed our new fleet hitting the streets! Our upgraded vans are not only modern and fully accessible, but they also feature a fresh, eye-catching wrap that makes them easy to spot around town. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE |  |
| Lawrence County Awarded a $290,000 ARC Grant |
| Lawrence County has been awarded a $290,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to add a second clarifier to the Wastewater Treatment Plant at the Mallard Fox West Industrial Park near Hillsboro. The project will ensure that First Solar has access to high-quality wastewater for its operations, which is crucial for maintaining efficiency and reducing downtime, operating sustainably, and avoiding operational disruptions by meeting environmental regulations. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE |  |
| NARCOG Gears Up for Community Events |
| As always, we’re excited to stay engaged and active within our community and look forward to participating in several upcoming events over the next few months. We’re continually working to fill our calendar with meaningful community events. If you or your organization would like to invite NARCOG to attend, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Outreach Coordinator, Kylie Bolyard, at kbolyard@narcog.org or 256-606-4352. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE |  |
| Governor Ivey Announces $25.9M for Economic Development |
| Governor Kay Ivey announced that over $25.9 million in Growing Alabama funds have been awarded to support 15 economic development projects across the state. Over 27% of the funding was awarded to Targeted Counties, including Cullman, which received $750,000 for the Frank Research and Technology Park. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE |  |
| NARCOG to Join Regional and Aging Leaders at SE4A & AARC |
| NARCOG is excited to be attending two major conferences this fall: the Southeastern Association of Area Agencies on Aging (SE4A) and the Alabama Association of Regional Councils (AARC). We’re proud to be part of those discussions and to continue contributing to the growth and well-being of the region. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE |  |