MONTGOMERY — The city of Glencoe has been awarded a $500,000 grant to improve traffic safety and boost economic growth, Gov. Kay Ivey announced.
The grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission – a federal-state partnership – will be used to make road improvements along U.S. 431, West Air Depot Road and West Main Street.
“Glencoe’s growth means economic opportunity, commercial development and the need for traffic safety improvements with busier roads,” Ivey said in a news release. “I am pleased to announce this grant to support these needed improvements.”
Ivey notified Glencoe Mayor Chris Hare that the grant had been approved. The city is providing a dollar-for-dollar match, resulting in a $1 million investment.
According to the city, the funding will support construction of an access road and deceleration turn lane to the Glencoe Gateway from U.S. 431, as well as provide a new connection to West Main Street and West Air Depot Road.
This project is expected to create 10 jobs, retain 35 jobs, and improve access to 18 local businesses — helping the community grow stronger and more connected, city officials said.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs administers the ARC program in Alabama.
“Economic growth is great for a community, but it should not come at the cost of creating traffic hazards,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “I commend Glencoe leaders for their attention to all aspects of development and growth.”
ARC is an economic development agency of the federal government and 13 state governments. The agency’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia to help the region achieve socioeconomic parity with the nation. Etowah County is among 37 Alabama counties in the ARC region and eligible for funds.
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