FHWA 09-12
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Contact: Kelly Hanahan
Tel: (202) 366-0660

FHWA Administrator Mendez Reviews Work on Alabama's Largest Roadway Project

Corridor X Investment Example of President's Plan to Create an America Built to Last

BIRMINGHAM - Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez today joined state and local officials to review progress on the Appalachian Corridor X and I-65 Interchange, a project that will improve safety and mobility in rural northwest Alabama.

"President Obama's vision for creating an America Built to Last calls for real investments in our highways, rail, transit systems, and airports that improve transportation options nationwide," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "Through projects like Corridor X, we're not only creating jobs for American workers today, we're laying the foundation for future economic development throughout the region."

Administrator Mendez's visit comes a week after the President's budget release, which includes $305 billion, over six years, to rebuild America's roads and bridges, a 34 percent increase over the previous authorization.

"The Corridor X project will link states and communities, create more business opportunities and improve travel for people throughout Alabama and the entire region," Administrator Mendez said. "It is creating jobs and strengthening our infrastructure."

This final 4.3-mile portion of Corridor X will include a four-level, 85-foot high interchange. The project is improving safety and keeping traffic flowing by adding several lanes and ramps that allow drivers to get on or off I-65 and I-22 without slowing down. The $168.6 million project relies on $134.9 million in federal funding and is expected to be completed in October 2014.

This interchange project at I-65 will complete the 96-mile Alabama portion of Corridor X, which began nearly 30 years ago. The corridor in Alabama begins at the Mississippi State line and ends at US 31 in Birmingham. It has been designated by Congress as Interstate 22.

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