Bakersfield, California topped the list of most climate-conscious and sustainable towns in the U.S., followed by Lansing, Michigan, Wilmington, Delaware, Charlottesville, VA, Grand Junction, Colorado, Eugene, Oregon, San Luis Obispo, California, Duluth, Minnesota, Salinas, CA and Montgomery.
More than $6.5 million has been saved over the past six years, thanks to energy efficiency programs
Montgomery’s energy program has expanded from 12 City facilities in 2019 to 50 facilities in 2022
Facilities are now realizing a reduction of 35 percent or more in energy use and emissions
In partnership with Alabama Power, converting 21,000+ street lights to energy-efficient LED lights throughout Montgomery
Intentional development to reclaim and regreen the community by transforming vacant properties into high-quality public greenspaces, like the Shady Street Park & Trailhead
Building a smart sustainable city
In an Earth Day news release about Montgomery’s eco-friendly initiatives, Mayor Steven Reed told us why sustainability and conservation matters.
“Building a smart and sustainable city is essential to becoming a leader in this decade and beyond because it affords us the resiliency and quality of life that are key ingredients to future growth, job creation and development.”
This article was written for The Bama Buzz by Pat Byington. To view the original article, please visit:
As we ring in the new year, the idea of new beginnings takes on a special meaning, especially when it comes to finding a new home.
If you’re ready to turn your dream of owning a home into a reality, why not explore the beautiful, thriving community of New Park in Montgomery, Alabama? Let’s dive into the benefits of homeownership and see why New Park isn’t just a neighborhood– it’s the setting for the next exciting chapter of your life story.
Building Wealth Through Homeownership
Owning a home is about much more than securing a place to live– it’s a significant step toward long-term financial security. The National Association of Realtors reports that homeowners typically have a net worth about 40 times greater than renters. With every mortgage payment, you’re building a financial safety net for the future. It’s an investment that turns your monthly payments into a growing asset!
Receiving Potential Tax Benefits
Homeowners often have the opportunity to deduct mortgage interest, property taxes, and certain expenses related to home buying from their taxes. This is particularly true in the early years of owning a home when most of your mortgage payment goes toward interest rather than the principal amount. While you’re paying more interest, you’re also getting to deduct more from your taxes.
Establishing Roots in the Community
Owning a home makes it easier to build connections with neighbors and the local community, which fosters your sense of belonging and engagement. Establishing relationships with long-term neighbors transforms your living experience and truly makes your house feel like home. New Park excels in facilitating a sense of belonging and engagement among residents. From picturesque walking paths and family-friendly playgrounds to a variety of hosted community events, New Park’s amenities are designed for connectivity and comfort.
Freedom of Customization
One of the joys of homeownership is the ability to customize your living environment to reflect your personal style and needs. From designing the perfect home office to creating a cozy nursery or a personal gym, your home can adapt to fit your lifestyle at every stage.
At New Park, we understand that your home is a reflection of you. Our properties range from move-in-ready homes and homes under construction to lots awaiting your custom design. With a variety of home styles and the option to work with some of Montgomery’s best homebuilders or bring in our own approved builder, you can tailor your living space to suit your needs and tastes.
Keep in mind that there may be some restrictions on major structural changes, especially in established neighborhoods with homeowner’s associations. These restrictions are often in place to maintain the overall aesthetic and property values.
Why Choose New Park?
Nestled in the heart of East Montgomery, New Park is synonymous with a lifestyle that combines convenience, comfort, and community. Settle in a thriving community that grows with you– whether you’re upscaling, downsizing, or just starting out.
Stay ahead of the game with regular home maintenance! Simple upkeep can prevent major issues, keep your home comfortable, and save your wallet from costly repairs.
Building meaningful relationships with your neighbors can transform your living experience, creating a sense of belonging and truly making your neighborhood feel like home. Here are six easy ways to create connections with those who share your community.
1. Attend Neighborhood Events
One of the best ways to meet your neighbors is by getting involved in neighborhood events and activities. Many neighborhoods, including New Park, host gatherings throughout the year like National Night Out or family movie nights. These events offer the perfect opportunity to connect with your neighbors in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
2. Spread Holiday Cheer
The holiday season is a time of warmth and togetherness that provides a fantastic backdrop for connecting with your neighbors. Use this time to strengthen community bonds by sharing homemade treats or organizing a festive potluck dinner. You could even host a gingerbread house building contest that brings out the creative side in everyone!
3. Start a Neighborhood Group
Discover common interests with your neighbors by starting or joining a neighborhood group. If you’re a bookworm at heart, consider joining or starting a book club. For those who love to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, a neighborhood walking group is a great option! Gardening circles are perfect for those who have green thumbs and a love for nurturing nature. If your passion is in the kitchen, consider starting a cooking club and taking turns hosting culinary adventures. The possibilities are endless!
4. Host an Open House
Hosting an open house event in your home is like extending a warm embrace to your neighbors, and it’s a delightful way to foster connections. Hosting a casual get-together is a great way to create a relaxed atmosphere for your neighbors to unwind, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. If you’re a pro on the grill, consider hosting a cookout in your backyard! Or, take your open house to the next level with a themed party to add an element of fun and creativity.
5. Volunteer Together
There’s no better way to strengthen bonds than by giving back to the community! Organize a neighborhood volunteer day to clean up a local park, serve at a food bank, or support a cause that resonates with your community. Whether it’s a charity run, a fundraising event, or an effort to aid those affected by a crisis, working together for a higher purpose not only benefits those in need but also creates lasting memories of unity and compassion.
6. Build a Relationship With Your Neighbors
Sometimes, the simplest gestures make the biggest impact. When you see your neighbors, take a moment to offer a friendly greeting and initiate a conversation. Ask about their day, share a funny story, or simply express interest in their lives. These everyday conversations can uncover shared interests, common experiences, and the foundations for lifelong friendships.
Whether you live in New Park or any other neighborhood, these friendly initiatives will help you cultivate connections that make your community feel like home. It’s all about creating a neighborhood where shared experiences become cherished memories and friendly faces are there to brighten your day.
New Park offers a beautiful backdrop for community activities in Montgomery, Alabama with neighborhood amenities like our private pool, serene lake, versatile clubhouse, playground, and scenic walking trail. Start building meaningful connections and experience the warmth of true community- contact us today!
If you’re considering a move to Montgomery, Alabama, you’re in for a treat! Our city has a lot to offer for everyone in the family. We’re here to introduce you to seven must-visit places that make Montgomery an amazing place to live. Whether you’re a newcomer, a longtime resident, or somewhere in between, read on to explore the top-rated attractions that define Montgomery.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure at the Montgomery Zoo, conveniently located just a quick 10-minute drive from downtown. This family-favorite destination spans 40 acres and is home to over 700 animals representing five continents. It features natural, barrier-free exhibits that allow you to peek into the habitats of creatures from around the world.
While you’re there, be sure to take a ride on the Zoofari Skylift for amazing views of the zoo, say hello to a giraffe eye-to-eye at the Giraffe Encounter, enjoy hands-on fun at the Petting Zoo, and spend some time with the colorful residents of Parakeet Cove!
Uncover the hidden gem that is the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts! MMFA has been enriching the lives of locals and visitors since its founding in 1930. Inside, you’ll uncover a captivating collection of over 4,000 works by American artists, spanning from the 18th century all the way up to modern times.
Don’t miss the ArtWorks Interactive Gallery, where art enthusiasts of all ages can engage with hands-on exhibits that explore the materials, ideas, and techniques behind each masterpiece. The best part? Admission is free– though donations are accepted and greatly appreciated.
Experience world-class live entertainment at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, one of the world’s largest Shakespeare festivals. ASF comes to life with 6-9 productions each season that feature a mix of genres and playwrights, ranging from timeless classics to modern dramas. What makes ASF even more special is its dedication to bringing Southern stories to life, infusing the stage with a unique charm.
Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or you’re just looking for a fantastic night out in Montgomery, ASF is your ticket to an unforgettable evening that will leave you inspired and entertained.
Historic Riverwalk Stadium is home to the Montgomery Biscuits, Montgomery’s very own AA Minor League Baseball Team. Before you settle into your seat to watch the game, take a leisurely stroll around the stadium’s open-air concourse and enjoy some signature biscuits (both sweet and savory).
When it’s time to beat the heat, head over to the Club Car Bar for a refreshing Crafty Lefty Lemon Shandy. It’s the perfect combination for an unforgettable evening in Montgomery!
If you’re a history enthusiast, the Alabama State Capitol is a must-visit. Nestled in the heart of downtown Montgomery, this National Historic Landmark serves as a working museum that offers a glimpse into Alabama’s rich past and political journey. Here, you can stand right where the Confederacy was born, as well as where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his iconic “How Long, Not Long” speech at the end of the third march from Selma to Montgomery.
A visit to the Capitol building is a journey through time that will give you a deeper understanding of Alabama’s pivotal role in shaping our nation’s story.
Situated on the grounds of a former warehouse where Black individuals were once subjected to forced labor and near a historical slave auction site, The Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration is a powerful narrative museum that explores America’s history of racial injustice.
After checking out the museum, carve out time to visit the nearby National Memorial for Peace and Justice. The memorial features hundreds of suspended steel columns engraved with the names of U.S. counties where lynchings occurred. It’s an essential experience that sheds light on a dark chapter of our nation’s past and calls for reflection on our ongoing journey toward justice and equality.
Located minutes from downtown Montgomery along the scenic banks of the Alabama River, Montgomery Whitewater is a 120-acre outdoor adventure park that offers a variety of guided and unguided paddling activities for all skill levels.
Whether you’re an expert or a whitewater beginner, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from the exhilarating Competition Channel to the more serene Creek Channel. Gear up and get ready for a thrilling day on the water!
Ready to make Montgomery your home sweet home in the vibrant New Park community? Contact New Park today to explore a range of beautiful homes for sale and discover why it’s the perfect neighborhood for you!
Chris’ Famous Hotdogs has been a Montgomery institution since 1917. Bring a piece of Montgomery history into your own kitchen with this Copycat Chris’ Hot Dog Sauce recipe!
Enhancing your home's curb appeal is about more than just aesthetics—it's about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for you, your family, and your guests. Whether you're already part of the vibrant New Park community or considering it as your new home in Montgomery, Alabama, here are some effective tips to elevate the charm of your home's exterior.
Remember: Before you start giving your house a fresh look, it’s always a good idea to check in with your Homeowners’ Association (HOA) if you have one.
1. Upgrade Your House Numbers and Mailbox.
Start with small yet impactful updates like refreshing your house numbers and mailbox. Choose house numbers that are clear, sizable, and complement your home’s style. Consider modern fonts and finishes that stand out against your home’s exterior. For your mailbox, replace worn-out numbers and consider updating the mailbox itself if it shows signs of wear or rust.
2. Refresh Trim and Exterior Paint.
Combat sun-faded trim, siding, and doors with a fresh coat of paint. Opt for colors that harmonize with your home’s overall aesthetic and blend well with your neighborhood’s surroundings. A new coat of paint not only revitalizes your home but also enhances its curb appeal instantly.
3. Replace Exterior Hardware.
Upgrade outdated door handles, locks, and light fixtures to instantly refresh your home’s exterior. Choose hardware that complements your home’s architecture and personal style. Mixing finishes and styles can add a contemporary touch while improving functionality.
4. Add Outdoor Lighting.
Illuminate pathways, entryways, and landscaping with strategically placed outdoor lighting. Choose fixtures that enhance your home’s features and provide safety at night. Solar-powered or LED lights are eco-friendly options that can save energy and enhance your home’s nighttime appeal.
5. Enhance Your Landscaping.
Transform your outdoor space into a welcoming oasis with thoughtful landscaping. Incorporate a variety of native plants and flowers that thrive in Montgomery’s climate. Create visual interest with diverse textures and colors, and consider adding outdoor furniture and water features to complete the look.
Ready to make New Park your home?
Explore the perfect blend of curb appeal and community at New Park! Discover new homes and vibrant living opportunities in this sought-after East Montgomery neighborhood.
MONTGOMERY, AL | July 20, 2023 – New Park has been named to the winning list of Nextdoor’s 2023 Neighborhood Faves, the only annual awards where neighbors vote to celebrate their favorite local businesses. This year, Neighborhood Fave winners like New Park will receive greater visibility and ranking on the Nextdoor app as well as a sticker to showcase their win in the real world.
“Neighbors know best, and Nextdoor’s Neighborhood Faves are the only annual awards celebrating the businesses that are most loved by locals. This prestigious recognition is only awarded to 1% of the local businesses on Nextdoor and is a testament to the positive impact they have had on their community,” said Nextdoor CEO Sarah Friar.
Used by one in three households in the US, Nextdoor is the neighborhood network where verified neighbors and businesses connect to the neighborhoods that matter to them.
The complete list of winning businesses in each city is available at nextdoor.com/favorites. Join the neighborhood network by downloading the Nextdoor app or visiting nextdoor.com.
At New Park, we believe in building strong communities and fostering a love for reading. That’s why we are thrilled to announce the installation of our very own “Little Free Library” at the Gatehouse.
What is Little Free Library?
Little Free Library is a nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minnesota dedicated to expanding book access and building community through their global network of volunteer-led book-exchange boxes. The mission of Little Free Library is simple yet powerful: to provide 24/7 book access, inspire readers, and create a sense of community. Their book-sharing boxes are open to everyone, removing barriers to book access and encouraging a love of reading.
How Does the Little Free Library Work?
The Little Free Library at New Park is a book-sharing hub where you can donate books you no longer need and find new reads to enjoy. Whether you’re a child or an adult, there’s something for everyone. Take a book that catches your interest, and feel free to leave a book behind for someone else to enjoy. The library is conveniently located just outside the Gatehouse, providing easy access for all.
Join us in promoting literacy, community, and the joy of reading. Donate your books, discover new stories, and be a part of making our neighborhood a friendlier and more inclusive place. Visit our Little Free Library at the Gatehouse today and let the magic of books inspire you!
Are you tired of starting your day in a disorganized space? If so, it’s time to embrace a fresh start and transform your environment! We’ve compiled a list of our top decluttering tips that you can work into your daily routine.
1. Begin Each Day with a Fresh Start.
Taking a few minutes each morning to reset your space will help you set a positive tone for the day and keep an organized mindset. The easiest place to start is with making your bed– it instantly tidies up the room and sets the stage for a productive day. After that, try quickly scanning your surroundings and putting misplaced items back where they belong to eliminate the gradual accumulation of clutter. Opening up your curtains to let in natural light is a great way to finish your morning decluttering routine and boost your mood.
2. Conquer Clutter Hotspots.
We all have at least one spot in our home that tends to attract clutter despite our best efforts to keep it organized. It might be your kitchen counter, the coffee table that becomes a dumping ground for random objects, or even that one chaotic drawer in your bedside table. Set aside a few minutes each day to declutter and reclaim at least one of these problem areas. Making a habit of keeping your clutter hotspots tidied will ultimately make it easier to maintain order in all areas of your home.
3. Take 10-Minute Decluttering Breaks.
Finding time to tackle clutter on a regular basis can feel impossible or overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Carving out just 10 minutes each day to focus on decluttering a specific area like a shelf or closet makes a huge difference in the long run. The key here is to choose a manageable task that you can tackle within the allotted time. Remember: With each 10-minute decluttering break, you get a little closer to the organized home of your dreams!
4. Invest in Storage Solutions.
Setting up your home so that each item has a designated spot will help tame the chaos and make it easier to find what you need when you need it. Storage bins, baskets, and shelves are your secret weapons against clutter. Use them to do a daily round up of loose toys, cables, or other small items. With an endless variety of colors, textures, and patterns to choose from, you can easily match your decluttering solutions to your home decor aesthetic.
5. Get the Family Involved.
Organizing can be a powerful tool for teaching responsibility, instilling good habits, and fostering a sense of pride in maintaining a clean living space.
Assigning daily age-appropriate decluttering tasks to each family member is an effective way to get everyone involved in keeping your home in order. For example, toddlers and preschoolers can be tasked with putting their toys in bins and placing their books on bookshelves. Older kids and teens can help with everything from making their beds each morning to putting away groceries.
6. Create a Landing Zone.
Say goodbye to frantic searches and clutter scattered throughout your living space! Find a designated spot near the entrance of your home, whether it’s a small table, shelf, or catch-all tray, to become your landing zone (also known as a “drop zone”).
This is the spot where you can drop your keys, wallet, and other everyday essentials when you walk through the door. If you want to take it a step further and really customize your landing zone, add hooks for hanging coats or bags, a small basket for mail, or a charging station for your devices.
7. Embrace the “One In, One Out” Rule.
For every new item that you bring into your home, let go of something similar. Got a new pair of shoes? Donate or sell an older pair. This is a simple strategy to stay balanced and prevent your belongings from overwhelming your space. It also encourages you to be more intentional about your purchases since you have to consider which item you will give up every time you buy something new.
8. Master the Art of Mindful Consumption.
Practicing mindful consumption empowers you to make intentional purchases and prevents the accumulation of unnecessary items that can contribute to a cluttered living space. Try to start focusing more on the long-term impact a purchase will have on your living space and overall well-being. Invest in well-made, long-lasting products to minimize the need for constant replacement and accumulation.
Maintaining an organized and clutter-free home all starts with small, daily habits that add up to a significant impact. At New Park, a master-planned neighborhood in East Montgomery, Alabama, you’ll discover the perfect setting to put these decluttering tips into practice.
Whether you’re a growing family, empty nester, young couple, or first-timer, New Park has the perfect home for you. Contact us today to explore available homes or lots!
Alabama’s next tax free-holiday is July 21-23! Don’t miss out on this chance to stock up on back-to-school essentials. Click here to see if your county is participating, and click here to see which purchases qualify.
MONTGOMERY, AL | June 1, 2023 – Construction and development is complete on the next phase at New Park. New Park is a 1,110 acre master-planned community that began in 2008 with over 180 residential lots and has since grown to over 330 lots with development expansions in 2014 and 2016. Now the development is growing again. Developer, Jim Wilson & Associates, LLC (JWA) has expanded the residential project, to offer 30 additional new residential lots that allow customers to select beautiful, livable and affordable home designs. Marketed by Jim Wilson & Associates, LLC (JWA), lots are now available for purchase. Contact the New Park Sales Office (334-215-9215) for more information regarding lot reservations and builders.
New Park, a family friendly community, located on Park Crossing in East Montgomery between Taylor Road and Ray Thorington Road, features a sparkling lake, beautiful landscaping, a neighborhood pool with a small splash pad, The GateHouse, ParkPlayce and ParkPath – a 1 mile walking trail around Chastain Lake. New Park also offers outstanding access to nearby retail, restaurants, schools and the James W. Wilson YMCA. New Park is perfect for whatever age or stage of life you are in – growing families with kids, empty nesters, young couples, first-timers, downsizers, or upsizers. For more New Park information, visit www.newparkliving.com.
Jim Wilson & Associates, LLC, based in Montgomery, Alabama, has developed and managed a wide array of properties throughout the eastern United States, including Class A office buildings, hotels, residential communities and millions of square feet of premier shopping space. These experiences have brought knowledge and expertise that have generated new investment opportunities in capital, hospitality and gaming ventures as well. As a result, JWA’s services are expanding through the formation of partnerships and companies, including 42 Equity Partners and A&W Enterprises, LLC. JWA was founded by Jim Wilson, Jr. and today is led by his son, Jim Wilson, Will Wilson, and a well-established team of talented and experienced professionals. For more information about Jim Wilson & Associates, LLC, visit www.jwacompanies.com.
As affordability becomes an even tighter squeeze, WalletHub has compared 300 U.S. cities across 10 metrics to find the most affordable places for home buyers. The study ranked Montgomery, Alabama, as the most affordable city for buyers.
The 10 metrics used to evaluate each city were housing affordability (median house price divided by median annual household income), maintenance affordability, average cost of homeowner’s insurance, cost of living, cost per square foot, real estate tax rate, rent-to-price ratio, median home price appreciation, quarterly active listings per capita, and vacancy rate.
In terms of the housing affordability metric alone, Springfield, Illinois, ranked No. 1, followed by Peoria, Illinois; Montgomery; Detroit; and Flint. The least affordable cities, according to WalletHub, include California’s Santa Barbara, Santa Monica, Berkeley, Glendale, and Los Angeles.
Looking at vacancy rates, Miami Beach, Florida, has the highest rate, followed by Tuscaloosa, Alabama; Detroit; Pompano Beach, Florida; and Flint. The lowest vacancy rates are in South Gate, California; Elk Grove, California; Fontana, California; and Arvada, Colorado.
This article was written by Leah Draffen for Builder Online. To view the original article, please visit:
Recent Comments