Strong Secures $17.6M for North Alabama Roads & Services
Congressman Dale Strong wins federal funds for road expansion, hospital backup power, workforce training and airport infrastructure in North Alabama
The U.S. House of Representatives approved funding that includes $17,597,000 in Community Project Funding secured by Congressman Dale Strong (R-AL-05) for key infrastructure, health and workforce projects across North Alabama.
The funding is contained in the two fiscal 2026 appropriations bills: H.R. 7148, The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026, and H.R. 7147, The Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2026.
“As more families and businesses choose to call North Alabama home, the need for strategic infrastructure improvements has never been greater,” Strong said in a statement released after the vote. “I know firsthand the traffic challenges and the need for safer, more efficient roads. These projects will ensure North Alabama can continue to grow and lead.”
The largest portion of the funding — $5.5 million — is earmarked for adding lanes on Capshaw Road between Old Monrovia Road and Jeff Road in fast-growing parts of northern Madison County. The expansion is intended to ease congestion, improve safety and reduce commute times along this busy corridor.
Another $3 million will support a feasibility study for increasing capacity over the Tennessee River in Decatur. The study is a first step toward replacing the existing bridge and improving traffic flow on a key route for regional commerce.
In higher education and workforce development, Athens State University will receive $1 million to improve its Workforce Development and Multipurpose Center. The upgrades aim to better prepare North Alabama students and mid-career workers with skills tailored to local employers’ needs in high-demand fields.
The package includes $2 million for infrastructure at the Huntsville International Airport’s West Aviation Center project. This investment is designed to bolster the region’s role as a hub for defense, aerospace and advanced manufacturing.
Healthcare infrastructure also received a boost. Huntsville Hospital for Women and Children is slated to receive $2,597,000 to purchase a new generator system to ensure critical services continue during power outages and emergencies.
Finally, $3.5 million will go toward adding lanes on Slaughter Road, a heavily traveled commuter route that has long faced congestion and safety challenges.
The appropriations bills now move to the Senate for consideration.
