![]() Between 19, Alabama ranked 14th among the 50 states in total utility pole fatalities and 13th in utility pole fatalities per 100 billion vehicle miles traveled. “It’s just the wrong thing for this particular community.Federal regulations indicate that highway agencies should work with utility companies to treat utility facilities that are found likely to cause injury to motorists. “It’s hard to fight a state organization with millions and millions of dollars at their disposal,” said Purcell. Meanwhile, the state of Alabama began construction two weeks ago and has begun pruning back branches of the giant oaks. The opponents are seeking a temporary injunction to halt construction. The suit contends the road project should be considered part of a wider package of projects that are receiving some federal support. The state has maintained that because the $1.3-million project will be funded with only state dollars and not any federal money, it is not required to meet federal regulations. Last month, Eufaula residents and the city enlisted the Southern Environmental Law Center and filed suit against the DOT, alleging the state was inappropriately skirting historic preservation and environmental rules. “The problem are the 13 traffic lights that motorists have to navigate getting through Eufaula,” he said. Purcell says the widening isn’t likely to solve the traffic problem, even though it will do permanent damage to the character the town. Residents like Purcell preferred a bypass the state had been considering but abruptly abandoned in favor of the road widening last year, citing cost concerns. The town sits about equidistant between Atlanta and Panama City Beach.ĭuring summer holiday weekends and around spring break, traffic backs up and drivers may wait up to half an hour to pass through the two-lane, three-quarter-mile stretch in the town center. Throughout the rest of the year, locals say there are no traffic problems. Route 431 is a popular north-south route to Alabama and Florida’s beaches. The agency wants to widen the road because U.S. Photo: Zoe PowellĪlabama DOT has not budged, however. Purcell and other activists gathered 6,000 signatures opposing the widening.Ĭrews began construction on North Eufaula Avenue, against locals’ wishes, last Tuesday. “It’s Eufaula’s front porch and one of its showcases.” “North Eufaula Avenue defines the special character of Eufaula,” he said. The state of Alabama has tried to widen the road three times in the 42 years he’s lived there, and he’s fought back every time. Which is why many residents were horrified when the Alabama Department of Transportation came to town in November and announced it would be widening North Eufaula Avenue, through the heart of the historic district. Widening the road from two lanes to four would cut into the roots of the stately oaks and make this historic small-town street feel like a high-speed freeway.ĭoug Purcell, a long-time resident and board member of the Eufaula Heritage Association, has been leading the local campaign against the project. That event and other cultural tourism brings millions of dollars to the local economy every year. Stately mansions, giant live oak heavy with Spanish moss - it’s exactly the type of place that comes to mind when you picture Southern small-town charm.Įvery year the city hosts a home tour called the Eufaula pilgrimage, which culminates with the grand mansions on North Eufaula Avenue. The town of Eufaula, Alabama, population 13,000, is known for its historic buildings. North Eufaula Avenue, the heart of Eufaula, Alabama’s historic town center, is under threat by the Alabama DOT.
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