In June, ALDOT filed application with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the permit required before beginning construction on the 3.4 miles of the Northern Beltline between AL Highway 79 and AL Highway 75, the first portion slated for construction.
On Friday, December 21, ALDOT submitted the final data and information necessary to meet the permit requirements under the Clean Water Act.
In early December, ALDOT announced the purchase of 31 additional parcels of land, all from the same owners from which they originally bought the needed right-of-way. The additional parcels were deemed needed because the original right-of-way purchases were made before federal regulatory requirements regarding storm water changed, and because ALDOT has placed priority on ensuring the Northern Beltline is constructed in the most environmentally responsible way possible.
Governor Robert Bentley and ALDOT Director John Cooper have publicly stated they expect to let the first construction contracts for the Northern Beltline in the first half of 2013.
The utilities relocations work between AL Highway 79 and AL Highway 75 continues.
ALDOT selected the consultants for all survey and design work between I-65 and I-59. The final design work is nearly completed.