Concerns surround Ann Street realignment project | News

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA)- "You won't have the congestion like you currently have trying to get on Ann street," City Engineer Patrick Dunson said.

Dunson says from this intersection at Federal Drive and Atlanta Highway, you will be able to drive straight to Ann Street.

"[It] ties back into the existing Ann Street at Brewton Street and then the second phase picks up at Brewton and goes to Highland Avenue," Dunson said.

It's a long-awaited relief for many drivers but raises some concerns from neighborhoods impacted by the realignment: Lee Oaks, Eastbrook/Morning View, Highland Park and Capitol Heights.

"These four neighborhoods and we are already working closing to watch these things," Capital Heights Neighborhood Association President Cynthia McCollister said.

McCollister says there's a concern about what's going to happen after the expansion, in particular possible re-zoning.

"We're not opposed to change, but we want it to be done smart, right and protect all the communities that are around there," McCollister said.

Dunson says the first phase of this expansion will go through Lee High school's front parking lot. He says there's a back parking lot that should accommodate those vehicles. He says the second phase will affect a portion of the high school's track and several rental properties and businesses along Ann Street.

Dunson anticipates the right of way acquisition for phase one to take place within 6 to 12 months.

He says this is a city, state and federally funded project. So far, funds have not been received the second phase.

Project plans are readily available for public view at the Montgomery Engineering department.

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