ATHENS, Ala. (WHNT) — Gov. Kay Ivey announced grant funding that will help improve traffic safety and congestion at a major intersection in Athens.
The $400,000 grant will be combined with a community development block grant that Gov. Ivey awarded to the city earlier this year.
The two grants will fund improvements at the intersection of U.S. Highway 72 and Mooresville Road. Increased traffic is expected at the intersection as a 59,000-square-foot shopping center is under construction adjacent to the intersection.
“As north Alabama experiences tremendous growth and the need for more retail options, traffic control can be a challenge with more vehicles in the cities and towns reaping the economic benefits,” Gov. Ivey said. “I commend local leaders in Athens for recognizing that while growth brings many benefits, it can produce some challenges that should be met head-on. I am pleased to announce this grant to support these improvements in safety at this busy intersection.”
French Mill Crossing, will be built on a 12-acre site southeast of the Mooresville Road and U.S. Highway 72 intersection. The commercial complex is expected to create at least 100 jobs, will include a Publix grocery store, a bank, a convenience store/fueling station, a fast-food restaurant and other retail outlets.
The road improvements will include widening and adding two turn lanes on Mooresville Road to improve access to the shopping center. Additionally, a deceleration lane and entry route will be built on U.S. Highway 72.
“Anytime we can grow our retail base, we grow our sales tax revenue to fund city services,” Mayor Marks said. “This project will meet a need for retail in our city limits to the east, keeping tax dollars in Athens.”
Gov. Ivey notified Athens Mayor William R.” Ronnie” Marks that the grants had been approved. The city has pledged $618,192 in local matching funds for the project.
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