EXPLORE HELENA CITYOFHELENA.ORG
HELENA explore
OFFICIAL GUIDE FOR THE CITY OF HELENA
CITYOFHELENA.ORG
2024
YOUR HOMETOWN
MEET CITY OFFICIALS AND LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR HOME
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
A day in
2024 EDITION
HELENA
WALKING TRAILS, CITY PARKS, LOCAL EVENTS AND MORE
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR TIME IN THE CITY CityOfHelena.org 1
2 Explore Helena
CityOfHelena.org 3
4 Explore Helena
Welcome to Helena Explore Helena offers new and current residents of the city an organized and visual guide to everything that makes the community stand out amongst its neighbors. Inside, you will find everything from a guide to our beautiful parks and exciting annual events to a look at the various individuals who make our community so rich and diverse. Whether you’re visiting Helena or here to stay, let Explore Helena offer you a guiding hand through our small town that we all love so much.
CityOfHelena.org 5
The Davidson Dam The Davidson Dam, named after C.T. Davidson, was created in 1909 when Davidson constructed it to provide a reservoir for steam trains traveling through the city. It formerly helped power the Helena grist mill, cotton gin and produced electricity for the city. It is now one of the most serene sights in the city and serves as the home to the popular Buck Creek Festival each year.
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CityOfHelena.org 7
A LETTER FROM THE MAYOR.............. 10 HELENA BY THE NUMBERS.................. 12 VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR CRIS
NELSON................................................. 16 JANE B. HOLMES PUBLIC LIBRARY..... 18 SENIOR CITIZENS PROGRAM.............. 19 HAPPENING IN HELENA...................... 20 MEET THE CITY COUNCIL.................... 26 CITY DEPARTMENTS............................. 27
8 Explore Helena
HELENA explore
SETTING UP UTILITIES.......................... 30 CITY PARKS............................................ 31 MAP OF OLD TOWN............................. 34 WALKING TRAILS.................................. 36 HELENA’S SCHOOLS........................... 37 CHURCH DIRECTORY........................... 39 A DAY IN HELENA................................. 41 TAG YOU’RE IT....................................... 49 HISTORY OF HELENA........................... 50
CITYOFHELENA.ORG
EDITORIAL Donald Mottern Andrew Simonson Noah Wortham
DESIGN Sydney Allen Jamie Dawkins Connor Martin-Lively Rowan Futrell
MARKETING Michaela Bankston Octavia Campbell Evann Campbell Kari George Rachel Henderson Rhett McCreight Lauren Morris Kayla Reeves Viridiana Romero
ADMINISTRATION Alec Etheredge Mary Jo Eskridge Stacey Meadows Tim Prince Brittany Schofield
Explore Helena is the official visitors guide for the city of Helena that is published yearly by Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. The magazine is mailed to all households and businesses in the 35080 zip code and will be available year-round throughout the city. Additional copies may be available at Helena City Hall at 205-663-2161 or by emailing info@helenathemagazine.com. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission is prohibited. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Shelby County Newspapers, Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Please email advertise@helenathemagazine.com for advertising inquiries. CityOfHelena.org 9
A LETTER FROM THE MAYOR OF HELENA
L
Let me be among the first to welcome you to Helena! Consistently rated among the top places to live and raise a family in the southeast, Helena has much to offer. This guide is designed to help you become better acquainted with our community. Quickly becoming an eco-tourism destination, Helena capitalizes on its natural resources and wildlife with a much-touted trail system and recreational opportunities on the water with Buck Creek and the Cahaba River flowing right through town. Our schools are some of the best in the state, not only in academics, but in extracurricular and athletic opportunities for all students. The city stands behind the schools and educators with financial support with an innovative grant program. TAG (Teacher Assistance Grant) helps ensure that educational needs are met for all of our students. With multiple parks in Helena, our Parks and Recreation Department is committed to the creating and maintaining safe and enjoyable parks and recreation areas for the present and
10 Explore Helena
future needs of our residents. Our youth sports programs help keep kids active, teach friendly competition and introduces healthy practices for life. Safety and security are a top priority as well. We are proud of the Helena Fire and Police departments, and though they may support significantly different organizational cultures; essentially, they serve the same mission—to safeguard the community, to aid in crisis and to prevent harm. Our growth has brought new shopping areas, restaurants and businesses to meet the demands of more citizens. The addition of the new business expansion has also added jobs and extensive culture for our community. I encourage you to take a close look at Helena if you are relocating to our area. We work together and enjoy the benefits of a small town while having the resources available of a large municipality and maintaining the small-town charm we all love.
J. BRIAN PUCKETT Mayor of Helena
“Our schools are some of the best in the state, not only in academics, but in extracurricular and athletic opportunities for all students.” -Brian Puckett, mayor of Helena CityOfHelena.org 11
ABOUT HELENA Helena is a thriving suburb located in the Birmingham-Hoover MSA, and it has continuously been ranked as one of the best places to live in Alabama and the nation. Helena’s unique charm is due to a lively historic downtown district situated along the Cahaba River paired with progressive, well-planned development resulting in a popular destination for families. With the revitalization of Old Town Helena, new retail developments, and new City Hall and town center projects underway, Helena is experiencing growth across multiple sectors and is projected to see a continued rise in population and housing numbers. We hope you’ll visit Helena to establish your place in the market now and be on the forefront of this expanding community!
POPULATION HELENA IS THE
31st
LARGEST CITY IN THE STATE OF ALABAMA CITY POPULATION: 21,862
48%
OF RESIDENTS POSSESS A BACHELOR’S DEGREE OR HIGHER.
48% MALE 52% FEMALE
30.18% POPULATION INCREASE SINCE 2010
CITY SAFETY
3.8%
VIOLENT CRIME RATE (2.16% BELOW STATE AVERAGE) 12 Explore Helena
5.94% PROPERTY CRIME RATE (19.9% BELOW STATE AVERAGE)
EDUCATION HELENA HIGH SCHOOL RANKED #2 OUT OF ALL SHELBY COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS AND #21 OUT OF ALL ALABAMA HIGH SCHOOLS, ACCORDING TO USNEWS.COM
HELENA HIGH SCHOOL HAS A GRADUATION RATE OF
95%.
NUMBER OF STUDENTS IN INDIVIDUAL SCHOOLS:
HELENA ELEMENTARY
HELENA INTERMEDIATE
HELENA MIDDLE
HELENA HIGH
897
1,073
REAL ESTATE
TRAVEL TIME TO WORK
30.4 minutes
21:1
941
STUDENT TO TEACHER RATIO
1,397
TRAVEL TIME TO AIRPORT
35 minutes MEDIAN HOME SALES PRICE
$300,000 MEDIAN MONTHLY RENT
$1,287
NUMBER OF NEIGHBORHOODS IN HELENA
25
INFORMATION COURTESY OF THE US CENSUS AND US NEWS AND WORLD REPORT CityOfHelena.org 13
HELENA FORWARD 14 Explore Helena
Beginning in 2022, Helena began, in partnership with US Steel, the first phase of their Helena Forward project. The project serves to develop a new town center that will serve as home to Helena’s new City Hall, a new state-of-the-art sports and leisure complex and other mixed-use commercial and residential buildings. The Hillsboro Town Center, as the development is labeled, will be located at the intersection of Highway 52 and Hillsboro Parkway at the southeast corner of the master-planned residential community of Hillsboro.
In the words of Mayor Brian Puckett, “Helena Forward brings together public and private resources to positively impact our city and residents. We’re working together for the growth and betterment of our city.” The proposed sports complex alone will include approximately 50 acres of facilities and recreational areas that will feature fields for baseball, softball, lacrosse, soccer, football and other competitive sports. Early projections indicate an overall projected economic impact at 42 million dollars for the city upon the area’s completion. CityOfHelena.org 15
CRIS NELSON
Volunteer of the Year Following her longtime service to the city of Helena and the community, Cris Nelson was honored with the 2023 Lifetime Volunteer of Helena award during the annual Helena Volunteers Appreciation Dinner on Tuesday, Nov. 29. Nelson has been a resident of Helena and small business owner for 40 years who has given her time as an avid volunteer since 2003. First appointed to a position on the City Council to fill a vacancy in 2008, she also went on to 16 Explore Helena
found the Teen Council, win reelection twice and served as the city’s first council president. Nelson continues to be a very familiar face in Helena and has served on multiple committees and helped organize for the Buck Creek Festival, First Fridays, Movies in the Park, Helena Market Days, the Helena Business Association and much more. She has served as a committee member for the Alabama League of Municipalities and holds certifications in municipal excellence.
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JANE B. HOLMES PUBLIC LIBRARY The city of Helena’s library is the perfect place to engage and learn through books and activities.
MEET LIBRARY DIRECTOR DAN DEARING Dan Dearing has been in his current position as the director of the Jane B. Holmes Library for 15 years. He credits his wife, Katherine Dearing, for encouraging him to apply, which led to former Helena Mayor Charles “Sonny” Penhale giving him a chance at the job. He is extremely thankful for the citizens in Helena for their support of the library each year. Dearing is a native of Helena and a graduate of Pelham High School. He went on to graduate from the University of Alabama and has served on many of Helena’s boards and committees.
Since it first opened its doors to Helena residents 36 years ago, the Jane B. Holmes Public Library has provided a modern library experience with a home town feel. The library is located on Tucker Road, between Helena City Hall and scenic Joe Tucker Park. The library staff strives to assist residents in a friendly and professional manner. In addition to the wonderful selection of books for all ages, services include access to e-books and e-audio books, movies, computer access, and much more. Patrons with a Shelby County library card have access to many additional resources. The Friends of the Library offers residents an opportunity to 18 Explore Helena
volunteer and promote all that the library has to offer. With a variety of programs for all ages, the Jane B. Holmes Library plays an important role in the city of Helena. Popular choices include Storytime for preschoolers, The 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten reading program, neat crafts, Lego Fun, as well as events for teens, adults and seniors. In addition, the always greatly anticipated summer reading challenge encourages all residents to read throughout the summer. Whether you are a resident of Helena, or just visiting, the Jane B. Holmes Public Library is a fun and friendly place to visit!
HELENA SENIOR CITIZENS
The Helena Senior Citizens is an active group of senior adults, ages 55 and older, that is growing and welcomes all Helena seniors to come join the fun. Several activities the group looks forward to is playing bingo, exercise class, painting classes and card games on Friday nights. The group has made several outings in the past, including a trip to hear the Alabama Symphony, a concert by Taylor Hicks and the Senior Citizens Health Fair. They have also made a trip to Tuscumbia, where they visited the childhood home of Helen Keller, the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, the Coon Dog Cemetery and lunched at the famous Rattlesnake Saloon. It’s free and easy to join the group. An application can be obtained by going to the city’s website Cityofhelena.org under
the Parks and Recreation section. You can also pick one up at city hall or by contacting Lilly Clayton via email at LClayton@ cityofhelena.org or phone through the parks and recreation department. The group meets in the Senior Citizens room at the Helena Sports Complex. Helena’s Senior Citizen Program is full of fun activities that encourage socialization and stepping outside your comfort zone. Every week there is something new and exciting for local senior citizens to take part in. The program has been designed to appeal to all areas of interest, and it is open to all Helena area seniors looking for a fun and stimulating activity. CityOfHelena.org 19
HAPPENINGS IN HELENA Throughout the year, residents of Helena never hurt for activities. Whether it’s in the hot summer months or in the cooler fall months, every corner of Helena will have an exciting community-centered event for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Independence Day Celebration One of the most beautiful sights each year are the fireworks during the Independence Day Celebration in Helena. Set along the scenic banks of Buck Creek at Amphitheater Park, the event is a day full of fun that is capped off by an impressive and explosive fireworks display. It is an event that can be seen and heard throughout the city. No spots are better to witness the show than those near the Davidson Dam. 20 Explore Helena
EVENTS
Buck Creek Festival The Buck Creek Festival takes place in Old Town at Amphitheater Park and serves as the most popular event of the year. Held each year in Old Town’s Amphitheater Park, the event brings in people from across Shelby County and beyond to the banks of Buck Creek to experience two days brimming with fun. The event features live music, food and drink vendors, arts and crafts, rides, games and, of course, the famed duck race over the waterfall.
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EVENTS
Halloween in Helena
No shortcuts are taken when it comes to this spooky time of year, as October is filled with frighteningly fun opportunities throughout the city. Not only can you pick pumpkins, but Old Town is transformed with fall décor that includes the famed Pumpkin House. The Old Cahaba and Hillsboro neighborhoods, two of the biggest in the city, also host witches rides.
Old Town Live Among the city’s newest traditions, Old Town Live began in 2021. Now, it is a tradition that is looked forward to by its many residents. The event features live music from local musicians and national-level musicians, food trucks, vendors and much more one Saturday a month in a schedule that runs from spring until August. 22 Explore Helena
EVENTS
Christmas in Helena
Christmas in Helena resembles celebrations you might find in an oldtime movie and is exactly what you might expect from its tight-knit community. The city hosts its annual Christmas tree lighting and concert the first Friday in December, followed closely by a parade through Old Town the following day. Both events are guaranteed to bring families and friends together and prepare everyone for the holidays.
BBQ Cookoff One of the most popular Helena Market Days each year is the annual BBQ Cookoff. Some of the best barbecue cooks around partake in the event each year. The friendly competition and annual rivalries add another level of entertainment to the event.
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EVENTS
Helena Market Days The ongoing Helena Market Days are among the most popular events in the area and run from the first Saturday of June until the last Saturday in August. Serving as a farmers market, the event features fresh vegetables, fruits, honey, jams, crafts, artisans and much more for those in attendance. The market is located in Old Town Helena at Amphitheater Park.
Helena Easter Egg Hunt Each year, Helena’s Joe Tucker Park serves as the site of a community Easter egg hunt that brings families together in a community celebration of the holiday. Kids are encouraged to bring baskets and search around the park for as many Easter treats as they can find.
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CityOfHelena.org 25
CITY GOVERNMENT Here is an up-close look at the individuals who make Helena the special place it is through their work on City Council.
Utilities and Services Cable, Internet and Phone uAT&T Uverse – 1-888-708-0934 att.com uSpectrum – 1-855-707-7328 spectrum.com uC-Spire, Fiber Internet – 1-855-277-4735 cspire.com Gas uSpire – 1-800-292-4008 spireenergy.com Power uAlabama Power Company – 1-800-245-2244 alabamapower.com Trash Services uRepublic Services – (205) 631-1313 republicservices.com Water and Sewer uHelena Utilities City Water Service (205) 663-1670 LOCAL SCHOOLS uShelby County Board of Education – (205) 682-7000 shelbyed.k12.al.us/ uHelena Elementary School – (205) 682-5540 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hes/index.htm uHelena Intermediate School – (205) 682-5520 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/his/index.htm uHelena Middle School – (205) 682-5300 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hlms/index.htm uHelena High School – (205) 682-3650 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hhs/index.html uHillsboro School - (205) 864-7330 thehillsboroschool.org
Helena City Council meetings PRE-COUNCIL AT 5 P.M., CITY COUNCIL MEETING AT 6 P.M. HELENA CITY HALL Helena’s City Council meetings take place the second and fourth Mondays of the month. Helena City Council meetings are open to the public and offer the chance for you to get involved in the planning of your community. 26 Explore Helena
Brian Puckett Mayor
bpuckett@cityofhelena.org
MEET THE CITY COUNCIL
Alice Lobell
Chris Willis
alobell@cityofhelena.org
cwillis@ cityofhelena.org
Place 3, Council President
Christopher VanCleave
Place 1
Laura Joseph
Place 2 Pro Tempore cvancleave@ cityofhelena.org
Hewy Woodman
Place 4
Place 5
ljoseph@cityofhelena.org
hwoodman@ cityofhelena.org
Council Agendas and minutes are posted on the city's website in accordance with the Alabama Open Meetings Act. CityofHelena.org
HELENA CITY OFFICIALS The city couldn’t function properly without a dedicated staff who keep Helena’s departments running smoothly.
DEJAY JONES
BUILDING OFFICIAL
BRIAN HINDS
UTILITIES DEPARTMENT SUPERINTENDENT
TERESA AMOS
UTILITIES ADMINISTRATION
Jones has been serving Helena for the past seven years. Having a background in industrial, commercial and residential construction, he came on as a Building Inspector in 2017 and became the city’s building official in 2021. Dejay’s main focus with the city is to ensure the city and its residents’ homes are safe and up to code. With the booming growth Helena has witnessed in recent years, it is his mission to ensure that safety is paramount. Brian Hinds, a lifelong resident of Helena, began his career with the Helena Utility Department in 1987 and became the superintendent in 1991. In his role, he oversees all of the Water and Waste Water Treatment Plant employees, along with all of the day-to-day operations. Brian has been a part of the extensive growth of the utilities within the city both in the Drinking Water and the Waste Water development. Brian has a wife and three kids.
Teresa Amos began her career with Helena Utility Board in 2006 as a utility clerk and was promoted to Secretary/Treasurer in 2012. She is a Helena native and has raised two children here with her husband, Chuck. Serving the community and ensuring they are provided with the best service possible is her goal.
JASON POE
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS
BILL MILLER
DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION
Amanda Traywick
City Clerk and Treasurer
Poe joined the growing Public Works Department in 2016. Within two years, Jason became the Director where he has lead a team of dedicated employees that keep Helena looking great ever since. He is a certified welder as well as a certified supervisor through the state and federal governments. Jason believes that improving his team by giving them the tools and education that they need to continue growing while also believing the same for himself. Bill has served as director of Parks and Recreation since 2015. He oversees a well-trained staff who are responsible for the maintenance of facilities and overseeing future developments for Helena. Along with working with our schools, the department currently manages three athletic parks, four common parks, six tennis courts, the Helena Community Center, the Helena Amphitheater, and Senior Citizen Programs as well as the roughly 900 youths each season in various athletics programs. Amanda Traywick has worked with the city since 1997. She was appointed to the position of City Clerk/Treasurer in 2008. She has her BBA from Faulkner University and is an Auburn University Certified Alabama City/County Manager, University of Alabama Certified Master Municipal Clerk and Certified Planning and Zoning Official. She also serves as President of the Shelby County City Clerk’s Association. CityOfHelena.org 27
HELENA FIRE DEPARTMENT The Helena Fire Department has 23 full time employees and 14 volunteers. All employees are, at a minimum, Alabama State certified as Firefighter I & II. In addition, all employees are National Registered EMT-Paramedics or currently in school to become a medic. HFD operates four (4) fire stations that are staffed twenty-four (24) hours daily.
CHRIS MILLER FIRE CHIEF
Miller’s career in fire service spans nearly 20 years. He first started with the HFD as a parttime firefighter/paramedic in 2007 has fully dedicated himself to the department for the last 14 years. He was sworn in to the role of fire chief in September 2023 following the retirement of Peter Valenti. Prior to his promotion, he served as captain on B-shift and as the department’s training officer.
HELENA POLICE DEPARTMENT The Helena Police Department has prided itself on serving the community since the beginning. With a current roster of 28 sworn officers and 8 non-sworn personnel, the police department works to provide residents of Helena with safety and security 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Their highly-trained officers are fully capable of handling any situation with sensitivity and efficiency.
BRAD FLYNN POLICE CHIEF
Flynn became Helena’s Police Chief in January 2021 after serving on Helena’s police force since 1995. Flynn has directed HPD with the goal of strengthening the bonds between his officers and the community. As the father of a child with autism, Flynn has fought for the establishment of the SAFE Station mobile sensory room, which is designed to help soothe those with sensory awareness needs at public events. Flynn has said repeatedly it is one of his top priorities that every citizen of Helena feels they are represented and protected. 28 Explore Helena
CITY BOARDS & DEPARTMENTS Below is a list of Helena’s many appointed boards and city departments. For more on each, visit Cityofhelena.org.
HELENA PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
Planning and Zoning Meetings are scheduled for the 3rd Thursday of each month unless it falls on a holiday week or otherwise noted.
HELENA BEAUTIFICATION BOARD
The Beautification Board is an appointed board of the City Council. This board works closely with city leaders to plan and implement the city’s beautification plan. Throughout the year, the board spearheads efforts throughout the city to help improve the overall beauty and livability of the town.
HELENA DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION BOARD
The Diversity and Inclusion Board was formed to further the progression and diversity of the city of Helena and to make sure everyone feels their voice is heard in the community.
HELENA OLD TOWN (H.O.T.) BOARD
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Parks and Rec handles all of Helena’s The Helena Old Town Board handles local parks, the Helena Amphitheatre and manages seasonal sporting activities. everything related to the Old Town area.
HELENA UTILITY BOARD
Helena’s Water Board plans for, operates and maintains both the infrastructure and the organization necessary to provide high quality drinking water and a reliable water supply for all household, commercial, and community needs. They also sustain and enhance the region’s watersheds and quality of life by managing wastewater and storm water effectively.
CITY CLERK’S OFFICE
The mission of the City Clerk’s office of the City of Helena is to assist and support the Office of Mayor and the City Council in the governance of the City. The City Clerk is Amanda Traywick. Phone: (205) 6632161 Ext 111
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
The Helena Historical Preservation Committee was set up by the Helena Committee to preserve, promote, and Public Works provides the citizens of protect the history of Helena. Meetings Helena with thorough and efficient are held on the 3rd Sunday each month mastering of any public works related at the Helena Museum located at 4000 Helena Road. issues such as road work.
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
HOW TO GET INVOLVED:
Residents of Helena are always invited to attend public meetings on record such as City Council and Pre-Council meetings and Planning and Zoning meetings as well as meetings of all appointed boards and committees. Volunteer opportunities are always available in the city for its many events and offerings. Those who are interested in furthering their involvement with the community are always welcomed to reach out. Please visit Cityofhelena.org for individual department/board contact information.
CityOfHelena.org 29
UTILITIES IN HELENA RESIDENTIAL SERVICE If you are moving into Helena, water & sewer services can be set-up in advance of closing on your new property. The Deed is required within three to five business days after closing. If you are renting, leasing or are leasing to purchase, please supply a copy of your dated/signed Lease Agreement at time of application. If applying with a co-applicant, we will need a copy of each person’s identification. We request you apply in person; payment must be received in our office at time of application. Please call our office at 205-663-1670 with any questions you may have, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
COMMERCIAL SERVICE All new commercial accounts must provide a copy of the written Approval of Inspection and Verification of Compliance from the Building Official. Please call the Building Official at 205-663-2161 for assistance.
WATER
UTILITY BILLS uBills are mailed the first of each month.
To set up Water if you are a new resident of
uMeters are read around the middle of each month.
Helena: uPlease pick up a service application available
PAYMENTS
either at City Hall or available through email
uA drive-thru and drop box for payments is located on the side
from Heidi Gates at City Hall
of the Helena Municipal Building for your convenience.
uRequired materials for purchase residents
uTo pay online go to Cityofhelena.org/utility (e-card, e-check,
are a deed and settlement statement
Tel card and Tel check) or pay by phone # 1-833-860-5953 a fee
uRequired materials for rental residents are a
is charged.
lease and rental agreement
uWe also accept Credit and Debit Cards in the office with a
uThere is a $50 non-refundable service fee for both rental
charge of $2.00.
and purchase residents; rental residents will be charged
uAutomatic Bank Draft is free and safe, apply here in the office.
an additional $150 deposit
uNever be late with payments by enrolling in automatic bank
uCredit cards will be charged a $2 convenience fee; cash
draft. This option is free of charge.
and check are also accepted
GARBAGE AND RECYCLING
OTHER SERVICES
Garbage
and
Recycling
service
are
provided
by
uElectricity is set up through Alabama Power:
Republic Services. Please call 205-923-1650 or by email at
1-800-245-2244
Republicservices.com. To access your trash
uGas is set up through Spire: 205-326-8100
pickup schedule, visit Republicservices.com/
uDriver’s license and car tags are done at
locations/alabama/Helena-trash-pickup-and-
the County Services Building in Pelham:
recycling. Office hours are Monday through
205-620-6600.
Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
uShelby County Tax Collector: 102 Depot St., Columbiana, AL; 205-669-3900
Questions about the City or City Services? Visit the action center! cityofhelena.org/city-action-center/
uOnline Nexbillpay: 1-800-639-2435 uVoter Registration: 205-669-3913 uPostal Office Helena: 205-621-6388
If you have a water or sewer emergency, please contact the Helena Police Department at (205) 663-6499. 30 Explore Helena
HELENA CITY PARKS
Buck Creek 4151 Helena Rd, Helena, AL 35080 The Buck Creek area of Helena is one of the most scenic park areas in the city and is where favorite annual events like the Buck Creek Festival is held. The Buck Creek area is home to the Helena Amphitheater and a beautiful waterfall. Helena residents can go hang out on the banks to see a local concert or just to enjoy the scenery.
Cahaba Lily Park
3200 Co Rd 52, Helena, AL 35080
If you’re looking for a park to have a family event outside in the sunshine, look no further than Cahaba Lily Park. There are plenty of outdoor pavilions with grills, tables and even a playground for families to have a fun day together. While you’re there, check out the dedication statue for Shelby County’s beloved K-9 dog officers. CityOfHelena.org 31
CITY PARKS
Joe Tucker Park 230 Tucker Rd, Helena, AL 35080 Joe Tucker Park is a multifaceted park for people of all interests. There’s a baseball/softball field for those looking for a sports activity, leisurely walking trails for those desiring a pleasant walk through nature, exercise equipment, a playground and a pond that houses an assortment of wildlife including geese and ducks.
Lee Springs Park
45 Appleford Rd Helena, AL 35080 This relatively new park has a more rustic feel with historical remnants. This park was created to provide a new space for Helena residents to unwind and relax. With its extensive walking trails through Helena’s heavily wooded landscape, it’s the perfect park for lovers of the great outdoors. This park also have a pavilion that can be rented for events. 32 Explore Helena
CITY PARKS
Penhale Park 180 Penhale Park Road Helena, AL 35080 Penhale Park is the epitome of a small-town park and it serves to provide Helena residents with a reliable place to host community events. There are well-lit baseball and soccer fields along with cookout areas, walking trails and a fishing pond for everyone of all ages to enjoy.
Cahaba River Park 2793 River Road Helena, AL 35080 For those looking for a park that promotes more intense physical activity, there is no better than Cahaba River Park. The park provides outlets for fishing, kayaking, mountain biking, canoeing and even swimming. Nature lovers will also love its extensive population of native birds and beautiful Cahaba lilies that live along the river banks.
CityOfHelena.org 33
LEGEND 1. ALABAMA GOVERNOR W RUFUS COBB HOME: Cobb served as Alabama’s governor from 1878-1882.
2. HELENA MUSEUM AND HISTORICAL MARKER: Named for Kenneth
Penhale, the building was originally the local Masonic Lodge. Building was relocated from Maylene, AL in 1935 after the original building was destroyed in the 1933 tornado. 3. PRESIDENT'S HOUSE: Dr. Isaac Tichenor was Auburn University’s President from 1872-1882. The house was destroyed in the 1933 tornado. 4. DOCTOR'S OFFICE: Dr. Tucker was Helena’s first physician, and town pharmacist. Joe Tucker Park is named in honor of the doctor’s son. Today, the park contains a replica of a cabin that early Alabama settlers would have used as a home. 5. MULLINS GROCERY: The Mullins brothers owned three general stores in the area. 6. STANDARD OIL: the world's largest oil refiner at its height which relocated from Jefferson County. 7. ODD FELLOWS LODGE: The fraternal orders for laborers that flourished around the turn of the century in the area mining communities all but disappeared after WWII.
1
Historical Map
8. NASH DRUGS/POWELL HOTEL: Nash drugs once held slot machines.
9. OLD HELENA TOWN HALL: This build-
ing served as the original Helena Town Hall and as the town’s first library. 10. WALLACE GROCERY: Operated by T. L. Wallace. It was built between 1908-1910 using stones from the destroyed railroad bridge and train trestle located over the Cahaba River. 11. RUFFIN BROTHERS STORE: For 50 years the brothers sold everything from hats to coffins and served as the town's post office. 12. CABOOSE & CENTRAL IRON: Located here is the Historic Birmingham Mineral Railroad Site Marker (L&N). Today, the Helena Caboose serves as the Welcome Center of Helena, Alabama. 13. TELEPHONE SWITCH HOUSE: This building served as Helena’s first phone station and switchboard. It was built in 1911. Later, the building was used as the Helena Jailhouse. 14. THE HELENA DEPOT: Originally located on Railroad Avenue in 1872. In 1905, it was moved to a location behind the C. T. Davidson House. In the 1990s, the building was moved to its current location and now serves as a restaurant. 15. BUCK CREEK DAM: The dam was created in 1909 by C. T. Davidson. He constructed the dam to provide a reservoir for passing steam trains, as well as, to harness the power for the Helena grist mill, cotton gin, and electricity for the town of Helena.
16. DAVIDSON SKATING RINK AND POOL: This building sits on the site of the town’s
resort.
17. PUMP STATION: Former site of the railroad reservoir and pump station. Map: Hal Woodman 34 Explore Helena
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LEGEND
H E LE N A WALKING TRAI LS
E x i s t i n g Tra i l Fu t u re Tra i l S i d e wa l k
St a d i u m
Roads
Schools
Wate r B o d ie s Fu t u re Pl a n n i n g
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S p o r t Ce nter
Par k s
SCHOOLS IN HELENA The city of Helena’s schools offer the highest quality of education to all of Helena’s youth community. From pre-k to senior year, all of Helena’s students will be given every opportunity to shine academically, athletically and socially. Helena High School has a graduation rate of 95%, and undoubtedly leads their students towards a bright and successful future. It’s important to all of Helena’s educators to give students the necessary tools to pave their own path to find out who they are as a person.
HELENA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Genet Holcomb – Principal 187 3rd Street Helena, AL 35080 Shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hes (205) 682-5540
HELENA INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL Sasha Baker - Principal 3500 County Road 52 Helena, AL 35080 Shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/his/ index.htm (205) 682 5520 CityOfHelena.org 37
HELENA MIDDLE SCHOOL Matt Epps - Principal 1299 Hillsboro Pkwy Helena, AL 35080 Shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hlms (205) 682-5300
HELENA HIGH SCHOOL Ashley Bahr – Principal 1310 Hillsboro Pkwy Helena, AL 35080 Shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hhs/index.html (205) 682-3650 38 Explore Helena
CHURCHES IN HELENA Grace Christian Church
ANGLICAN Lamb of God Church Head pastor: Caron Glenn Davis 5140 Hwy 17 (205) 919-7932 Lambofgodcec.org BAPTIST The Church at Old Town Head Pastor: Josh Knierim 815 Highway 52 E (205) 663-7879 Thechurchatoldtown.org
Church at Cahaba Bend
CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ at Helena 2499 Highway 58 (205) 620-4575 Helenachurch.com
New Vision Christian Church Senior Pastor: Van C. Houser 2383 Highway 95 (205) 919-6678 Nvcc4god.org
DISCIPLES OF CHRIST Grace Christian Church Lead Pastor: Rev. Brad Henderson 869 County Road 52 (205) 426-1233 Gracechristianchurch.org
The Rock Church Head Pastor: Bryan Van Gieson 501 2nd Avenue West (205) 358-7625 Rockofbirmingham.org
Gospel Light Baptist Church Lead Pastor: Gary Bohman 5781 Roy Drive (205) 685-0772 Glbcbham.com
METHODIST Helena Methodist Head Pastor: Rev. Rusty Tate 2035 Highway 58 (205) 663-0111 Helenamethodist.org
Mount Pleasant Baptist Church Head Pastor: Edwin Dinkins 5320 Helena Road (205) 624-3323 Mpbchelena.com
Non-Denominational Open Door Independent Church 120 Laurel Woods Drive (205) 482-5963 Opendooral.com
Riverside Baptist Church Senior Pastor: Chris Wilson Worship Pastor: Kyle Ziglar 1919 Highway 52 West (205) 426-1910 Rbchelena.org
Cornerstone Church Life Christian Fellowship Lead Pastor: Rev. Tim Trimble 2694 Highway 58 (205) 663-9332 Cornerstonechurchhelena.org
Crossbridge Community Church Lead Pastor: Cody Brister 1455 Starkey Street (205) 358-3500 Crossbridgehelena.com
Church at Cahaba Bend Lead Pastor: Rev. Patrick Friday 3721 Hwy 52 West (205) 621-8060 Cahababend.org
The Voice of Faith International Ministries Head Pastor: Franklin Kirksey 1560 Cunningham Drive (205) 663-7396 PENTECOSTAL Helena Pentecostal Worship Center Head Pastor: Rev. Joel Wayne Pate 2nd Ave. & Branch St. (205) 663-1697 Presbyterian: Harmony Church of Helena Head Pastor: Mike Ensminger 3396 Helena Road (205) 663-2174 Harmonychurchofhelena.net Christ Community Church Pastors: Phil Chambers and David Cunningham 2222 Highway 52 (205) 881-4222 ChristCommunity.net CityOfHelena.org 39
EXPERIENCED & CARING TEACHERS LOW STUDENT TO TEACHER RATIO KINDERGARTEN CLASS OFFERED WITH A DEGREED READING COACH
Enrollment for fall of 2024 opens to the public February 1. Classes for ages 2-5 run from the end of August through May and are available Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 am to 1 pm.
To schedule a tour, contact Emily Jackson at ejackson@christcommunity.net, or call (205) 289-8640 to learn more. L E A R N M O R E AT C H R I S T C O M M U N I T Y. N E T/ T H E B R I D G E 2222 HIGHWAY 52 • HELENA, AL 35080
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A Day In
Helena The city of Helena prides itself on the diverse and fun-filled activities it has to offer, whether you’re staying for a weekend or just passing through for the day. Here are some activities we recommend for everyone. CityOfHelena.org 41
A DAY IN HELENA
Oversoul Brewing
This local brewery provides a large variety of different craft beers that any beer enthusiast will enjoy. While you’re there, take in the view of Old Town Helena and Buck Creek.
Caboose Welcome Center A staple in the Helena community, the Red Caboose serves as a Welcome Center landmark to all who enter Helena. Take a picture with it and tag us on Instagram.
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A DAY IN HELENA
Refined to go Going into its third year of business, Refined to Go is highly rated and offers upscale comfort food to go. When you’ve had a long day and don’t feel like cooking, it’s the perfect spot to pick up dinner.
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A DAY IN HELENA
Cahaba Lily Park Cahaba Lily Park offers a walking trail, playground, picnic areas and even offers shaded pavilions with grills for entertaining friends.
Brown Sugar Desserts If you’re looking to fulfill your sweet tooth cravings or want the best grit bowl of your life, stop by Brown Sugar Desserts and say hey to Renea and her family. They’re always there ready to make your day brighter.
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A DAY IN HELENA
Helena Sports Complex There’s always something fun to do at the Helena Sports Complex. The complex hosts a variety of events like line dancing classes for seniors, soccer games and even a potluck or two.
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A DAY IN HELENA
Lunch at The Depot The Depot Deli & Grill is one of Helena’s most popular lunch spots. Parked next to the Big Red Caboose by the railroad tracks, this quaint and delicious deli offers a diverse menu. Oh, and it also happens to be the city’s old freight depot.
Helena Museum If you’re looking for a fun place to spend an hour or two and want to learn about Helena’s vibrant history, visit the Helena Museum.
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Cocktails on the porch at Beef O’Brady’s If you’re looking for a relaxing way to unwind at the end of the day, look no further than the porch of Beef O’Brady’s. They have a wide variety of drinks and cocktails for you to choose from, and it can be the perfect nightcap to a busy day in one of the best cities in Alabama.
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A DAY IN HELENA
Helena Sunsets If you’re looking for a special way to end your day, Helena is known for the breathtaking sunsets. Popular destinations to take in the tremendous views include Helena High School, Buck Creek Park and Joe Tucker Park.
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TAG, YOU’RE IT Helena’s Teacher Assistant Grant makes a genuine difference in the classroom WRITTEN BY DONALD MOTTERN When Mayor Brian Puckett took office as Mayor of Helena, there was already a onecent sales tax in effect for the purposes of funding education. First implemented in April of 2011, and first effective in July of that year, the tax was initially imposed as a way to raise funding for the construction of Helena High School. Cent-by-cent, this fund quietly grew and grew and was utilized by the city of Helena to pay bond debts for school athletics, to make large donations to the city’s schools as well as a way to afford a host of other meritorious matters dealing with education as the needs arose. Upon taking office in November of 2020, Mayor Puckett realized that despite all of the expenses, money remained in the fund at the end of each year and with it, a great opportunity patiently waited to present itself. Puckett began the Teacher Assistant Grant (TAG) with the earnest goal of doing something somewhat rare in the governmental sphere, which was getting money and funding directly into the hands of the teachers. This move quickly allowed for the ones in the classrooms, the ones who are with the students each and every day and the ones who know most about what is needed, the opportunity to make headway. “It’s things that, a lot of times, that specific teacher wants because they know that it’ll be a good educational tool for the classroom,” Puckett said. “This was a simple way to be able to reward those teachers that are always giving back to our community, who are pouring (their support) into our students each and every day.” The first awards of the TAG grant took place in April 2021 and have since made an immediate impact on Helena’s schools, who have seen an immense benefit come from the additional funds. These funds make it possible for schools in Helena to better connect and serve their
most valuable export, their students, and the TAG grant generates pathways for teachers to personally adapt and update their classrooms so that they can better fit it to the students and their technologysavvy generation. In Helena Elementary School, where the educational journey of every child in Helena begins, the awards have made the procurement of a long list of items possible, including desktop computers, replacement books, desks and chairs, reading and math kits, smart panels, teaching and manipulative sets, adaptive seating arrangements and toys for special needs classrooms. At Helena Intermediate and Middle School, the two schools have seen teachers receive grants that have been used to purchase things such as laptops, white boards, sensory items, playground equipment, musical instruments, science and sporting equipment, program subscriptions and renovations to classroom libraries, labs and gyms. Teachers at the high school have even been allowed to purchase items such as sets of graphing calculators, new radio
systems, 3D printers, digital cameras and lenses, computer upgrades and science and dance equipment. It is evident, through a near universal appreciation from the teachers, that the TAG grant program set forth by Mayor Puckett has greatly aided Helena’s schools in their furthered modernization and continued adaptability where education is concerned. Applications for the TAG grant are open to each and every single teacher within Helena’s schools. Once each application period ends, a committee review then determines which applications are approved for each iteration of the grant. The grant exists in two iterations each year, with awards of the TAG grant occurring each April and November. It is a design that allows teachers two opportunities to receive funding per school year. “I’m just extremely thankful for our schools and the teachers within the schools,” Mayor Puckett said. “This is just a tiny way that we can give back to them, to make their jobs the easiest it can possibly be.” CityOfHelena.org 49
HISTORY OF HELENA
Helena’s history is as rich and unique as the town’s residents. Here is a brief synopsis of how our town came to be. The community that would become Helena started in 1845 as the town of Lee’s Cove. In 1856, the name was first changed to Hillsboro. During the Civil War, the confederate government built a rolling mill that would be used to build plate that was sent to the Naval Arsenal in Selma. This mill was destroyed by Union troops in April 1865. The Louisville & Nashville Railroad sent a railroad engineer named Peter Boyle to survey a route that would go from Montgomery, AL and northward to Elyton, AL (present day-Birmingham, AL). In the 1880s, Peter Boyle fell in love with a local judge’s daughter named Helen Lee. The railroad station, then established near the town of Hillsboro, was named “Helena” by Boyle in honor of his sweetheart. The steel mill was subsequently reopened, and the city flourished during the
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late 19th century. Numerous industrial facilities also opened, such as a cotton gin, a grist mill, coal mines, and a rail yard; along with resident homes, stores and a hotel. Around 1920, the boom ended with the closing of the coal mines and the relocation of the steel mill. The population declined as residents moved in search of jobs. The Great Depression dealt Helena another
blow, as did a devastating tornado in 1933 that destroyed 110 homes and killed 13 of the city’s residents. Despite the adversities, the community came together and started over, healing and repairing the damage that was sustained. Ever since, that small town has continued to grow with a big heart and grand vision.
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CityOfHelena.org
HELENA explore
P.O. Box 947 • 115 North Main Street Columbiana, Alabama 35051 Phone: 205-669-3131
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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID MONTGOMERY, AL PERMIT NO. 432