Gordo Bypass: Economic Boost & Smoother Rides

0:00It's April 7th. This is Birmingham News Today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with the story. Constructions rolling strong on the Gordo bypass along US Highway 82 and West Alabama. This major project in Pickens County promises shorter commutes and fresh business opportunities. It's on schedule, under budget at $45 million and just hit a key milestone in its final paving phase. Earlier delays from COVID and rough weather are in the rear view now. The first earth moving stage wrapped up two years back, leaving just as base and pavement work to finish the eight mile route. The old highway stays open for local use under state care. Folks in Gordo have mixed feelings. Mayor Edwards pumped about the economic boost already eyeing zoning changes along the corridor to lower developers. She's filled it interest from businesses and sees it as a clean shot at growth, but some residents worry it'll pull traffic from downtown shops. L.O. officials back the vision, saying the bypass clears main roads for faster through traffic while sparking development.

1:03The town even eyes annexing extra land to snag the full bypass from max economic gain. Work keeps pushing toward completion one year from now, setting Gordo up for smoother rides and bigger prospects ahead.