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By Carey Reeder | Managing Editor

The City of Clanton announced on Sept. 30 a massive grant it received through the Alabama Department of Transportation that will go towards extending the sidewalk along U.S. Highway 31. The city was awarded $773,967 in grant funds through ALDOT’s Transportation Alternative Set-aside Program (TAP), and is designed to enhance pedestrian safety, promote accessibility and support the overall quality of life for residents and visitors to Clanton. TAP is a federally funded initiative by ALDOT that has aimed to improve transportation options in communities that are non-motorized such as walking and biking.

“This is a win for Clanton,” Clanton Mayor Jeff Mims said in a press release from the city. “The extension of the sidewalk is an important step in making our community more pedestrian-friendly and ensuring the safety of our residents. We are excited to move forward with this project and look forward to its positive impact.”

The funding will provide construction of a new sidewalk extending from Country Club Drive to Wilson Road on Highway 31. The project will act as the second stage of construction in the plans to extend the sidewalk along the highway all the way to Interstate 65.

“This project aligns with the city’s long-term vision for a more connected and walkable community while improving access to local businesses, schools and other key points of interest in Clanton,” the press release said.

For more information on the project or questions regarding it, City of Clanton Director of Utilities Stanley Higgins can be reached at shiggins@clantonal.gov.