Phase III of MLK Reconstruction Due to Complete in 2029
Greensboro Avenue, introducing a fourlane roadway divided by a landscaped median, new sidewalks, upgraded lighting and underground utilities, according to tuscaloosa.com.
Phase II followed in 2022 and reached substantial completion in early 2024, extending improvements west along Jack Warner Parkway from Greensboro Avenue to 21st Avenue according to tcric.org.
Work in Phase II included roadway widening and full-depth reconstruction, curb and gutter replacement, installation of water and sewer infrastructure and upgraded pedestrian features.
Final Phase Focuses On Railroad Crossing
Phase III centers on modifications to the existing railroad trestle, a longstanding bottleneck limiting vehicle clearance and restricting connectivity between downtown and West Tuscaloosa.
In addition to expanding the bridge span, the final phase will complete the corridor’s full buildout from Stillman Boulevard to Almon Avenue. Improvements include:
• conversion to a four-lane roadway with landscaped median
• installation of a 6-ft. sidewalk and a 12ft shared-use path
• upgraded roadway and pedestrian lighting
• enhanced landscaping and irrigation
• continued underground utility upgrades
The corridor also will provide improved multimodal access linking the Riverwalk, River District and downtown Tuscaloosa.
Economic Development Driver
City officials have emphasized the
project’s role in supporting long-term economic growth. Once complete, the improved corridor is expected to open more than 100 acres in West Tuscaloosa for redevelopment and investment opportunities, according to tuscaloosa. com.
The full three-phase program is now estimated at more than $84 million to $86 million, making it the largest infrastructure investment in the city’s history.
Timeline Ahead
Construction on Phase III is expected to continue through spring 2029, depending
Work in Phase II included roadway widening and full-depth reconstruction, curb and gutter replacement, installation
water and sewer infrastructure and upgraded pedestrian features.
City of Tuscaloosa photo
The full three-phase program is now estimated at more than $84 million to $86 million, making it the largest infrastructure investment in the city’s history.
Phase III centers on modifications to the existing railroad trestle, a longstanding bottleneck limiting vehicle clearance and restricting connectivity between downtown and West Tuscaloosa.