CHEROKEE – Governor Kay Ivey was in Cherokee this morning bringing news on the State’s innovative “Rebuild Alabama” plans. Rather than a piecemeal – project-by-project plan, Ivey explained to a large audience at Cherokee High School that this initiative is a massive project to rebuild critical road and bridge infrastructure. The projects are now underway throughout Alabama.
During her whirlwind visit to the westernmost community in Colbert County, Governor Ivey met with area mayors, county governmental representatives, and local folks to bring everyone up-to-date on the project.
A number of dignitaries addressed the audience, among them, Colbert County Commissioner, Charles Hovater. He pointed out a number of items on the checklist of projects which was developed by County Engineer, John Bedford.
- One of Colbert County’s greatest investment is it’s 99 bridge structures and 650 miles of paved roads. Those roads and bridges are critical factors of how we grow and promote Colbert County.
- With the creation of Rebuild Alabama we can start the process of preserving our Roads and Bridges
- The Colbert County Commission is committed to putting the public’s investment into action with Rebuild Alabama by starting work immediately
- Round one for Colbert County is paving over 60 miles of roads across the county, the largest contracted paving project in county history.
- A major factor with Round One’s success can from support of our local contractors. Rogers Group is doing the asphalt laydown operation and submitted a bid approximately 20% less than expected which allowed 6 more miles of roads to be paved. Vulcan Materials for having facilities across this county which reduces haul times which allow for more work to be placed on roads. Ozark Stripping for being flexible with their operations to meet our needs. Many Thanks to each of you
- With the creation of a consistent revenue generated by Rebuild Alabama and the continued support of our local contractors there will be more success stories to promote with ROUNDS 2,3,4,5….. with paving additional roads and replace deteriorating bridge structures
- Another important factor with Rebuild Alabama is the flexibility that allows each county to maximize the available resources it has. What does that mean for Colbert County? For example North Pike paving would have traditionally cost a on an average $120,000 per mile. Rebuild Alabama is allowing us to pave at an average of $69,000 per mile, that’s a success story.
