MONTGOMERY, Ala.— Montgomery Mayor Steven L. Reed and Montgomery City Council members Franetta Riley and Andrew Szymanski announced the start of construction on West Fairview Avenue between the I-65 interchange and South Court Street.
Over the next 18 months, the initiative will reduce the number of travel lanes along the corridor from four lanes to three (one lane in each direction with a center turn lane), improve drainage, construct sidewalks on both sides of Fairview Avenue, add landscaping, replace aging traffic lights, and consolidate utilities. The project is expected to cost $9 million to complete. The City of Montgomery financed the project with funds appropriated by the Federal Highway Administration.
“Once completed, West Fairview Avenue will be friendlier for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles to navigate,” said Montgomery Mayor Steven L. Reed. “These improvements will help the corridor be more accessible to retailers and enhance the quality of life for people living nearby. But beyond curb appeal, this project is about more than just creating a pretty picture. It\’s the fulfillment of a long-discussed community aspiration.\”
Improving usability and streetscapes along West Fairview Avenue has been a goal of neighboring communities for decades. Efforts to turn this vision into reality started in earnest ten years ago when preliminary civil engineering, design, right-of-way acquisition, and utility relocation began. The ongoing road work is a key part of the city’s broader revitalization efforts in West Montgomery, which also include the construction of a new fire station, the development of the Freedom Village Housing complex, and renovations to the Fairview Farmers Market.
Montgomery City Council members Franetta Riley and Andrew Szymanski, whose districts encompass Fairview Avenue, expressed their enthusiasm for the project. They noted:
“Historical trail is now being revived, restructured, and rejuvenated,” said District 4 Montgomery City Councilor Franetta Riley.
“This is an exciting project for District 7 and the City of Montgomery,” said District 7 Montgomery City Councilor Andrew Szymanski. “Fairview Avenue is an important commercial corridor, and the planned improvements will make the area better for travelers and residents alike.”
Dubose Construction Company, based in Montgomery, has been named the general contractor, with local firm Goodwyn Mills Cawood serving as the project engineer.
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