Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
Funding to alleviate blocked train crossings approved for Birmingham and surrounding communities
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Funding to help alleviate and solve the problem of blocked train crossings is coming to Birmingham, Central Alabama and the Black Belt.
A total of $23.8 Million has been awarded statewide, including $8 million to the City of Birmingham and an additional $15.8 to the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT). The funding comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure law that passed Congress in late November 2021.
Addressing a chronic Birmingham and Trussville problem
A chronic regional problem, Bham Now has reported numerous times over the years on the blocking of train crossings in Birmingham and Trussville.
U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell celebrated the much needed funding today saying:
“This funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law represents a critical part of our long-term strategy to alleviate blocked railroad crossings and will go a long way in improving the quality of life for those living in and around Birmingham. Securing this funding was truly a team effort, and I want to thank the City of Birmingham and our local leaders for their hard work in developing such a strong proposal and Norfolk Southern for their significant financial commitment to this project.”
Harris Homes community to benefit from grant
One of the big benefactors of the funding in Birmingham will be the Harris Homes Public Housing Community. For the better part of a century, residents have been forced to endure trains parked at entrances to the neighborhood.
“It’s hard not to get a little emotional thinking about what this will mean for the residents of this area. This is an opportunity to drastically improve the quality of life for so many of my neighbors.”
Councilor Darrell O’Quinn in a Birmingham City Council statement
Regional and political cooperation works — “Folks should take note”
In an interview with Bham Now, O’Quinn also wanted to recognize how important working together regionally helped make the grant funding possible.
“Across the region trains stopping at crossings and being a hindrance to vehicular and pedestrian traffic has long been an issue.This grant award will be a first big step towards addressing that issue, It’s been wonderful to work alongside Trussville on this project. And not only did we get advocacy from Congresswoman Sewell’s Office, but Congressman Palmer has been actively engaged in supporting this project too. Folks should take note that when we work together, we all have more opportunities to be successful.”
Have you had problems at railroad crossings in and around Birmingham. Let us know on social media how this funding will impact your life by tagging us at @bhamnow
