MONTGOMERY— Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded a $500,000 grant to bring new jobs to Dora while spurring additional commerce for the Walker County city.
The Community Development Block Grant will be used to supply infrastructure needed for the construction of a Love’s Travel Stop and County Store at the intersection of Interstate 22 and Flat Creek Road (Walker County Highway 81).
Love’s, which plans to hire nearly 50 people when it opens, is being built in the Heritage Landing Development, a 50-acre multiple-use commercial area. The development is located on the site of a reclaimed coal mining area and is close to an intersection of I-22.
“Interstate 22 has been a magnet for new businesses and commerce for Alabama cities and counties along its path since it opened in 2016,” Gov. Ivey said. “This project is a win for the city of Dora and Walker County, and I am pleased to award this grant.”
Funds will be used to extend sewer services 4.5 miles from Dora to the interstate and the Love’s development which in addition to fueling stations will include a convenience store and fast-food chain. The business, which will also offer full truck services, supplies, shower facilities and an RV dump station, will be open 24 hours a day year-round. Local leaders say the development could open the door to future businesses in the vicinity.
The project in addition to extend sewer lines will involve building two new pump stations.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grant from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
“This project will greatly benefit development around Interstate 22 in Dora which is a win for the city and a benefit for travelers,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA joins with Gov. Ivey in commending local officials for their leadership in this project.”
Gov. Ivey notified Mayor Hezikiah L. Walker Jr. that the grant had been approved. The town has pledged $402,500 in local funds for the project. Additional funding is also expected.
ADECA administers an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, water resource management and recreation development.
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