Matthew wilson tuscaloosa city county district 1

As your councilman, I’m proud to share the progress we’ve made and the vision I have for improving transportation in District One. From 2022 to 2023, we completed important roadway upgrades, added new bus shelters, and expanded transit services to better serve our community. In the next couple of years, my focus will be on further enhancing our infrastructure, including sidewalks, adding bike lanes, and launching real-time bus tracking to make commuting more efficient and accessible. Looking ahead to the future, I’m committed to leading initiatives that result in new connector roads, expanding public transit with additional routes and electric buses, and completing the West Tuscaloosa Greenway. District One will be introduced to smart transportation solutions like EV charging stations and ride-sharing partnerships to make our community more sustainable and connected. Together, we can continue making progress and build a transportation system that works for everyone.

As your dedicated leader, I am committed to reducing violent crime and homicides in Tuscaloosa through a comprehensive, actionable strategy. My plan includes strengthening law enforcement by enhancing recruitment, deploying advanced technology like ShotSpotter, and adopting proven deterrence models such as "Operation Ceasefire." We’ll build trust through community policing, advisory councils, and violence interrupters while addressing root causes by expanding youth programs, mental health services, and reentry support. I’ll advocate for responsible gun safety measures, data-driven policing, and public health initiatives to prevent violence.This isn’t just about policing, it’s about investing in our neighborhoods and creating opportunities for every resident. By improving educational resources, supporting local businesses, and revitalizing underserved areas, we can address the systemic issues that drive crime. Together, we can build a safer, stronger, and more united Tuscaloosa, where every family feels secure and every child has the chance to thrive.

I’m committed to addressing food insecurity and fostering economic growth in West Tuscaloosa. I am proud to support the Gaia Agricultural Technology, Inc. project, which brings innovative hydroponic farming systems powered by renewable energy. By establishing greenhouses throughout West Tuscaloosa, particularly in food desert areas, this initiative will provide access to fresh, locally grown produce for families, schools, and local businesses, reducing transportation costs and carbon emissions by sourcing food locally. The impact is profound. This project will create 3-5 new jobs per greenhouse, stimulate local businesses, and support over 2,500 students with healthy, locally grown school lunches. Through a partnership with local schools, the program will teach students valuable skills while providing workforce development opportunities for 50 individuals annually. Additionally, the project will engage over 500 K-12 students in hands-on STEM programs focused on sustainable agriculture and renewable energy, equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools they need for the green economy. Together, we can build a self-sustaining community that promotes both food security and economic opportunity for all. • Food Assistance Programs: Organizations like the Salvation Army Tuscaloosa continue to operate food pantries serving low-income families, single parents, senior citizens, and others in need. Future Plans (2025-2027) • Affordable Housing Development (2025-2026): work with mayor and staff plans to develop new affordable housing units and renovate existing structures to provide safe and affordable living options for residents. • Food Desert Mitigation (2024-2027): work with mayor and council to develop that Initiatives will be launched to increase access to nutritious food in underserved areas within the district by working with GAIA from TechStars which was started in 2024 that will include the establishment of community gardens, greenhouses, STEM Opportunities, collaboration with small businesses and residents as well as partnerships with local farmers. • Community Engagement and Education (2025 onwards): Programs aimed at educating residents about nutrition, budgeting, and homeownership will be implemented to empower individuals and promote self-sufficiency. Monitoring and Evaluation • Annual Reviews (Starting 2025): I plan to work with mayor council and staff to conduct annual assessments of food insecurity and housing affordability metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of implemented strategies and make necessary adjustments.

My Youth Empowerment Expansion platform is all about giving our young people the tools and opportunities they need to succeed, while also fostering sustainability and community development. I’m committed to offering mentorship programs, career readiness workshops, and STEM education to prepare our youth for the future. We’ll create safe, engaging spaces for recreation, and provide leadership opportunities through youth advisory boards and annual conferences. Mental health resources will be a priority, with counseling and peer support to address challenges like bullying and stress.Environmental sustainability is also a key focus, with initiatives like urban gardens, tree-planting, and green job training. I’ll push for eco-friendly infrastructure and teach youth about recycling and energy conservation. Through partnerships with local businesses and schools, we’ll create internships and hands-on opportunities in green industries. Together, we can empower our youth and build a thriving, sustainable community. Whether it’s joining a mentorship program, leading a clean-up, or serving on the Youth Advisory Board, we all have a role to play. Let’s make a difference—together!

As a leader that's dedicated to District 1, I am passionate about expanding recreation and enhancing community spaces in West Tuscaloosa. Parks like Burrell Odom, and Palmore Park are more than just green spaces, they’re where our families connect, our children play, and our community thrives. That’s why I’m committed to upgrades like walking trails, improved playgrounds, and shaded seating areas, ensuring everyone has a place to gather and enjoy. I’m proud of what we’ve already accomplished together. We’ve completed site preparations for Burrell Odom Park, with a groundbreaking ceremony planned for March 1, 2025. We’ve conducted a thorough inventory analysis, identifying needed upgrades at existing parks like Juanita Drive and Palmore Park. The City of Tuscaloosa has committed approximately $2 million to renovate Burrell Odom Park, located in the District 1 West End community. The park will undergo significant improvements, including new lighting and security features, a walking track, two playgrounds, and a basketball court.These enhancements aim to provide a safe and engaging recreational space for the local community. I’ve worked tirelessly to expand public Wi-Fi by partnering with local ISPs to bring affordable internet access to underserved families, bridging the digital divide. Whether it’s youth sports leagues, fitness classes, or summer movie nights, I want to see our parks buzzing with activity for all ages. Together, we can continue to secure funding for exciting new projects like community centers and bike paths, creating spaces we can all be proud of.

My Senior Service Expansion Plan is designed to support families in District 1 by offering both immediate relief and long-term empowerment. In the short term, the plan addresses urgent needs like food, emergency shelter, financial assistance, healthcare, and education support. By partnering with local agencies, churches, and community leaders, there will be access to food pantries, temporary housing, and financial aid for utility bills, childcare, and transportation. I will also prioritize linkage to health services, mental health support, and a 24/7 crisis helpline to ensure families receive the help they need during tough times. Looking ahead, my focus is to help families build a stable future. This includes job training, financial literacy workshops, GED programs, and housing initiatives to increase affordable options and educate families on tenant rights and homeownership. I want to prioritize preventive health education and create opportunities for community engagement through peer support groups. By providing both short-term relief and long-term solutions, this plan will empower families to achieve self-sufficiency, reduce stress, and contribute meaningfully to our community.