Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
Autauga County lands new $432K grant to evaluate growth corridors
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The future of local infrastructure is getting a serious boost. Autauga County, in partnership with the Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (CARPDC), has been awarded a $432,000 grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, officials announced Thursday, Oct. 9.
The funding, secured through the Fiscal Year 2025 Disaster Supplemental Grant Program, will finance a comprehensive economic development study focused on the Interstate 65 and U.S. Highway 31 interchange corridor, one of the region’s most critical transportation and commerce arteries.
Mapping out growth along I-65 + Hwy. 31
The upcoming Autauga County study will take a comprehensive look at the corridor by evaluating:
- Current economic conditions
- Transportation and transit connectivity
- Workforce assets and employer needs
- Future land use and development patterns
“This award represents a significant investment in Autauga County’s future. The I-65/U.S. 31 Interchange Corridor is a critical economic gateway for our county and central Alabama. This planning effort will help us better understand how to position the corridor for sustainable growth, attract new investment, support existing businesses, and improve quality of life for our residents.”
– Jay Thompson, chairman of the Autauga County Commission
Shaping the future of Autauga County
As the project moves forward, the planning process will lean heavily on stakeholder engagement, inviting input from local governments, business leaders, educational institutions and the public.
This collaborative approach ensures that the resulting roadmap addresses local needs and unlocks the full economic potential of the area.
“The Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission is proud to partner with Autauga County on this important initiative. This study will provide a comprehensive roadmap for leveraging the economic potential of one of the region’s most valuable transportation corridors. The resulting strategy will help local leaders make informed decisions that enhance economic resilience, support workforce development, and create opportunities for future investment.”
– Greg Clark, executive director of CARPDC
Once finished, the study will deliver actionable strategies for infrastructure planning, industrial expansion and long-term regional competitiveness. However, a specific timeline for completion was not immediately released.
What types of new businesses or infrastructure improvements would you most like to see developed along the I-65 corridor in Autauga County? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook.
