Lighting project to begin soon

RED BAY — Mayor Mike Shewbart said construction on a lighting project along the Alabama Highway 24/Corridor V entrance is expected to begin soon.

The Alabama Department of Transportation awarded the contract to Big River Electric Inc. of Killen with a low bid of $709,151. Three companies submitted bids ranging from $709,151 to $796,028.

He said a completion date has not been set, but the project could take up to six months to finish.

Shewbart said the proj- ect will add lighting from the Bear Creek Bridge to the 9th Street West (water plant) intersection. He said this work will replace the lights the city installed several years ago at the Highway 24 and Alabama Highway 19 intersection, noting those lights do not meet current ALDOT standards.

He said the city has received numerous requests from residents and businesses for additional lighting along the corridor.

He said improved lighting could help improve visibility and potentially deter crime in the area.

He said crews are expected to complete underground wiring work as part of the project, and motorists should use caution in the area once work begins.

Shewbart said additional police patrols will be conducted in the area during construction.

Shewbart said the city has pursued the project for about seven years.

“This was a project that was needed to help bring a safe intersection to the city,”Shewbartsaid.“When construction begins, please use caution in work zones.”

He said funding for the project was secured with assistance from Congressman Robert Aderholt.

Shewbart said the city hopes to reuse removed lights on 11th St. SE entering Red Bay.

“We hope this will help welcome visitors and provide a well-lit, safe area for our citizens,” he said.