U.S. Sen. Katie Britt announced that $2 million has been included in the fiscal year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations to fund safety improvements along the Pine Street corridor at the University of North Alabama.

The funding is intended to support upgrades designed to improve safety for students, faculty, staff and visitors traveling through the corridor, a key area adjacent to the Florence campus.

The Alabama Department of Transportation will receive the funding and oversee implementation of the project.

“We continue to be grateful for Senator Britt’s ongoing support of the University and the many projects taking place on campus,” UNA President Ken Kitts said. “The safety enhancements to Pine Street are not only necessary but a vital part of keeping campus a safe and welcoming space for all who encounter it.”

The Pine Street project was among Britt’s fiscal year 2027 Community Project Funding requests submitted to the Senate Appropriations Committee and included in the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations measure.

The funding continues Britt’s recent efforts to secure federal investments for the university. Last year, she helped obtain $5 million for the Joel R. Anderson Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurial Studies and $1.024 million for the Anderson College of Nursing and Health Professions through congressionally directed spending.

“These appropriations bills will support North Alabama, including through improving transportation infrastructure, supporting cutting-edge research, and procuring critical medical equipment,” Britt said in a statement. “I’m proud to have directly secured these key investments and look forward to continuing to fight for Alabamians every single day on the Appropriations Committee.”

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