$33.9M project making major McFarland Boulevard improvements in Northport

$33.9 million. That’s the hefty price tag attached to the first major Rebuild Alabama Act project, and it’s happening right here in Tuscaloosa County.

Beginning Dec. 13, the 2.77-mile project is expected to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion along U.S. Highway 82 — also called McFarland Boulevard, from Alabama Highway 69 to Rice Mine Road.

It’s adding a travel lane in each direction, which will provide better access for businesses in that area, as well as a path for cyclists and pedestrians. The funds come from Alabama’s 10-cent gas increase enacted by Gov. Kay Ivey several years ago.

“(It) is a significant amount of money, but it is not just a resurfacing project for your in and out,” said Alabama Department of Transportation Public Information Specialist John McWillaims. “There is a lot more that goes into this project. Money goes toward additional lanes, extending turn lanes, drainage, bicycle and pedestrian access, right of way pavements. There is a lot more that goes into this project than what it may seem on the surface.”

Lane closures will not impact drivers between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. on weekdays, McWilliams said.