About Us
The Original City Association of Tuscaloosa is more than just a neighborhood association. We are a community of people dedicated to the growth and improvement of our downtown neighborhoods. Our long and proud history of serving Tuscaloosa is a testament to our commitment to the well-being of our city. Join us today and become a part of our mission to make our downtown neighborhoods thrive.
Our Mission
Our mission is to cultivate a deep appreciation and understanding of the historical homes and neighborhoods of Tuscaloosa's historic districts. We strive to:
-
Educate all citizens about the benefits and joys of our historic neighborhoods.
-
Preserve and organize valuable information and materials related to these neighborhoods.
-
Enhance the quality of life in these areas by promoting their historical significance and community enjoyment.
-
Collaborate with local governments, educational institutions, and preservation organizations to support initiatives that celebrate and protect the rich heritage of Tuscaloosa's original neighborhoods.
Membership Details
The Original City Association (OCA) is...
​
-
A proud advocate group for 15 Downtown Historic Districts
-
An informational resource on issues affecting downtown neighborhoods
-
An influential partner with City Hall and The University of Alabama regarding issues relevant to our neighborhoods
-
A great way to meet neighbors and be involved in the community! The OCA is not all business… we have fun too! Twice a year, the OCA hosts get-togethers where fun and food abound, and where you can catch up with your old neighbors and meet new ones. The annual Holiday party is an event with fun activities for the whole family.
​
Over the past few years, the OCA has made steady progress.
Work continues on many issues that affect the Historic Districts including:
​
-
Ordinance enforcement
-
Monitoring HPC, ZBA, and Planning Commission hearings
-
Consulting with developers on new building proposals
-
Informing neighbors of historic district compliance
​
The OCA has worked with The University of Alabama's Off-Campus Housing to raise student awareness of local ordinances. We are thankful for the assistance the OCA receives from Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox and city officials to keep our neighborhoods safe, comfortable, and beautiful.
​
There are many things to do, and it takes all of us contributing. We are thankful for the many members who have helped protect our area by attending hearings and voicing concern over those who don't have the best interests of our neighborhoods at heart. We must maintain a large membership to ensure that our voice is heard. By joining the OCA, you enable continued work in protecting the Historic Downtown neighborhoods.
​
Membership dues are $25 annually.
Potential & existing members can pay via credit card on the Join page, or can send cash/check to our P.O. Box.
Historic Neighborhoods
Tuscaloosa has a rich history. It is the site of the first Capital of Alabama (from becoming a state to 1844) and home to The University of Alabama and the Chancellor of the University of Alabama System. It is a city where important historical homes still exist. A city with a vibrant and expanding business community, a city actively engaged in an evolutionary process with extensive plans for downtown redevelopment and riverfront development.
The intent of the OCA of Tuscaloosa is to support the continuing growth and evolution of Tuscaloosa and its communities while preserving its unique assets in a compatible manner.
​
Neighborhoods OCA Serves:
Alaca Place
Oakwood Court
Seventh Street
Eighth Street
Audubon Place
University Circle
Sixteenth Avenue
Dearing Place
Caplewood
College Park
Pinehurst
Monnish Drive
Guildswood
Thirteenth Street
Sherwood Drive
Myrtlewood Drive
Druid City
​
Click the link below for a map of the downtown area showing the historic districts which the OCA serves:
Officers
Original City Association Officers:
President – Nick Sella
Vice President – Cooper Shattuck
Secretary – Marianne Rosenzweig
Treasurer – Jamie Brewer