County Looks To Secure Funds For Northside Road Bridge Replacement

SAMANTHA, AL — The Tuscaloosa County Commission on Wednesday will begin talks to secure state funding to replace an aging bridge in the northern part of the county.

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The bridge being considered is on Northside Road and spans North River.

District 1 Commissioner Stan Acker told Patch that while the bridge is not an immediate threat to public safety at present, it will require an effort that could take several years.

This lengthy timetable, he explained, underscored the need to begin the process.

"It's not urgent, but probably in the next five years or so, it needs to be replaced," he said. "It's a no-brainer and a good project."

Indeed, according to its latest inspection, the bridge meets tolerable standards to be left as is, but is not one of the several listed as being in "good condition."

First built in 1948, the bridge averages approximately 650-700 motorists traveling over it each day. Inspection information shows the primary concern for the bridge is substandard load carrying capacity, which is denoted with signs on Northside Road.

Published in April 2020, the most recent cost estimate to replace the bridge came out to roughly $1.8 million in total for improvements to the bridge and roadway — a monetary figure that is likely to be higher due to inflated labor and material costs.

Acker said the goal for Wednesday will be for the Commission to formally pledge to cover the matching costs if the county is able to secure the necessary grant funding through the Alabama Department of Transportation and to authorize County Engineer Scott Anders to begin the first steps in engaging the county's Municipal Planning Organization for the project.

While update cost estimates of the proposed bridge replacement have yet to be determined, Acker said the grant funding being considered would see the county cover 20% of the total cost, while the state would pick up the difference.

"That area [in norther Tuscaloosa County] is growing, so we want to make sure or infrastructure is in good shape," Acker said.

The Tuscaloosa County Commission will meet on Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 9 a.m. at the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse.

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