Nation's Top Highway Official Helps Break Ground on Montgomery Outer Loop

Topics:  Victor Mendez, Interstate Highway System

Federal Highway Administration
28 September 2011

FHWA 53-11
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Contact: Kelly Hanahan
Tel: 202-366-0660

Project creates jobs, relieves congestion and encourages economic growth

MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez today joined Governor Robert Bentley and other state and local officials to kick off construction on the Montgomery Outer Loop, a project that will relieve congestion and improve traffic and freight movement across the city.

"This is a great example of the type of project we could see breaking ground all across the country if Congress passes the American Jobs Act," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "The jobs this project will create will put more people back to work and more money in the pockets of working Americans."

This $65.8 million project is using $52.6 in federal funds to connect I-85 in east Montgomery to an interchange at SR 110. It also includes construction of interchange bridges, road bridges, on and off ramp reconstruction and double bridge construction over SR-110 in Montgomery.

"Not only is Alabama finally breaking ground on this major project here in Montgomery, but these improvements will generate jobs and economic growth throughout the state," said Administrator Mendez. "Reducing congestion for area residents helps people spend less time on the road and more time doing things they enjoy."

Mendez called on Congress to pass the American Jobs Act and make significant investments in job-creating transportation projects across the country.

When completed, this phase of the Montgomery Outer Loop will create 3.5 miles of new roadway and bridge construction and serve as the first leg of the Interstate 85 extension through West Alabama.