MONTGOMERY — Gov. Kay Ivey has announced a $1 million grant to the city of Lincoln to improve a key access road servicing several major industries in Talladega County
McCaig Road is a desirable location for industry because it runs adjacent to Interstate 20. Improvements to McCaig Road through funds from the Appalachian Regional Commission will also benefit expanding industries already in the area. One of those is Fleet Direct Truck and Trailer Sales. Already located on McCaig Road, Fleet Direct has announced plans to expand and provide nearly 50 additional jobs. In addition to Fleet Direct, McCaig Road is also home to several parts suppliers of the nearby Honda Automotive manufacturing plant.
“After serving local industries for years, McCaig Road will receive this upgrade to continue being an important access route for years to come,” Gov. Ivey said. “This project is an investment in economic development for the city of Lincoln, Talladega County and the surrounding area which will pay dividends through business expansion and local job creation.”
ARC funds will be used to provide extensive base repairs, resurfacing and shoulder work along the road that runs on the south side of I-20 between Alabama Highway 77 and Stemley Road (Talladega County Road 207).
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs administers the ARC program in Alabama.
“These improvements to McCaig Road will translate to opportunities for continued industrial use as well as new jobs and increased commerce,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to join Gov. Ivey in support of this program, and I commend local leaders for their attention to the required road upgrade.”
Gov. Ivey notified Lincoln Mayor Carroll Watson that the grant had been approved. Lincoln has pledged $429,000 in local funds for the project.
ARC is an economic development agency of the federal government and 13 state governments. The agency’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia to help the region achieve socioeconomic parity with the nation. Thirty-seven Alabama counties, including Talladega County, are part of the ARC region and eligible for funds.
ADECA manages a range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, recreation, energy conservation and water resource management.
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