CULLMAN, Ala. – Gov. Kay Ivey and the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) Thursday morning announced 31 projects, totaling $7 million, selected for funding through the Annual Grant Program, a new program created under the Rebuild Alabama Act. The act requires ALDOT to establish an annual program setting aside $10 million off the top of the state’s share of new gas tax revenue for local road and bridge projects. Of the 31 projects, one is in Cullman County, where the City of Hanceville has been awarded $250,000 for resurfacing of and drainage work on Commercial Street from U.S. Highway 31 eastward to the bridge at North Fork Mud Creek.
Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman released the following statement Thursday afternoon regarding his continuing efforts to procure funding for County Road 1564 (Welcome Road) and Alabama Highway 69 near Bremen:
“As a voice for District 4 in Montgomery, and as your elected senator, it is my intent to always keep the constituents informed of the process which is going on in Montgomery. My personal goal is to be transparent in my decision-making process as your public servant.
“Recently, I took a tough, but much needed, stand along with Rep. (Randall) Shedd (R-Fairview) in support of the Rebuild Alabama Act. While this may not have initially been the popular decision, I was, and am, genuinely concerned with our state’s aging and inadequate infrastructure and the public safety nightmare of all those who consistently use our roadways and bridges- from school-age children in (buses) to commerce traffic which brings jobs and boosts the economy. Safety and economic prosperity have driven me to hold the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) accountable and to a high set of standards when it comes to the infrastructure needs within District 4 as it pertains to the services provided under the Rebuild Alabama Act.
“Recently, I sent this letter (see below) to the director of (ALDOT), Director (John R.) Cooper, demanding a joint effort to address a few of our safety needs at this time. I would like to thank Mayor (Johnny) Dyar of Baileyton and Mayor (Tawana) Canada of Dodge City for their letters of support with this project. With that being said, I want all the constituents in this District to know that I have actively, and shall continue to actively, push ALDOT to begin a repaving process on County Road 1564, or as we all call, “Welcome Road,” and also State Road 69 near Bremen.
“I have made the point clear and the need apparent, and that is simply the fact that these roads are in dire need of being resurfaced in their current state. We have the ability to address these needs, and there is no greater time than now.
“Last, I want to reiterate that my primary concern is for the safety of each person that rides on these roads – be it residents or travelers. But, if we can work together on this high priority of need, we can provide for public safety and this area’s continued economic growth. I hear and share in your frustrations. Please, know that I will not stop fighting for what this District deserves. I humbly ask for your patience and your continued support throughout this process.”
Ivey’s office said a second award cycle is expected later this year to award the remaining $3 million in funding, with notification to cities and counties coming from the League of Municipalities and County Commission Associations. It is anticipated that all projects will be under contract by the end of the calendar year, after bids are taken.
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ALDOTLetter_SenatorGudger by TheCullmanTribune on Scribd
