By Sarah Stephens, Elmore Autauga News
During Prattville’s council meeting earlier this week, Mayor Bill Gillespie shared positive developments concerning enhancements to McQueen Smith Road.
“In April,” he stated, “the economic development team, our city engineer, city council president…we all had a very successful trip to Washington DC to advocate for funding for various city projects. We had very productive meetings with Congressman Palmer’s office, Senator Coach Tuberville, and Senator Britt’s office.”
The Mayor was pleased to announce, “I am happy to report that Sen. Britt has included the city’s request of funding for McQueen Smith Road in her budget. With the approval of the President’s budget, the city of Prattville receives $6 million through ALDOT for funding improvements on McQueen Smith Road. I would like to thank Sen. Britt for including this project and she continues to support the City of Prattville.”
He expressed anticipation for potential contributions from other legislators as well.
Gillespie also noted that one of the four planned traffic lights has been installed on McQueen Smith Road. The remaining lights are expected to follow shortly, provided weather conditions improve and the area receives a break from recent heavy rain.
Continuing his report, the Mayor addressed parking, stating that the city intends to add an extra 160 parking spaces downtown. This expansion includes the areas behind the Way Off Broadway location and Spillway Park, which are currently enclosed by fencing. Handrails will also be installed in this vicinity by the city.
Gillespie further reported that construction is slated to commence soon on the downtown ADA sidewalk project. Work is anticipated to begin near the Doster Center and the site of the old kindergarten building.
An update on local paving projects was also provided, indicating they would start shortly, weather permitting.
Alongside the positive news, Gillespie acknowledged a challenging update regarding the Fairview Avenue Project.
“The challenge of Fairview Avenue continues,” he shared. Addressing the councilors directly, he emphasized, “I want to be clear. The lack of progress on the Fairview Avenue Widening project is unacceptable. Our city engineer is actively working to get answers and accountability from Sain and Associates and SDAC. We are reviewing every option available to help move this project forward. People of Prattville expect results and so do I. We will stay on top of this until the job is done and done right.” He added, “Any further questions anyone has, please do not hesitate to contact me. I spent quite a bit of time out there today, some during my lunch hour, as I was watching and trying to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of the crew on site.”
Returning to positive updates, Gillespie announced that he has signed a letter to proceed, enabling the North Highland Park project to be put out to bid. The mandatory pre-bid meeting is scheduled for June 26, with the bid opening planned for July 8. He expressed looking forward to seeing progress at North Highland Park.
Regarding other developments, Gillespie mentioned the Public Safety Training Facility is expected to be completed around late June. The finalization of this project is dependent on the delivery of air conditioning equipment. Once the facility is operational, the FATS equipment, known as the Firearms Training System, for first responders can be brought in.
In concluding remarks, Gillespie stated, “In my tenure here, for many years, this is the best that I have seen the City of Prattville work with our EMA team. It is the best I have seen the city work with the 911 team. It is also the best I have seen the City of Prattville work with the Board of Education. I truly believe that we have the best intent for all citizens of Prattville.”
In related business, Finance Director Daniel Oakley delivered a presentation indicating the city’s finances are in stable condition. To hear his full report, please refer to the 1:10 time mark in the video link provided. The EAN recommends you watch the entire Council meeting for more details on various subjects here –https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ijjWNlXrUg