Purpose and Need

ALDOT Project No. NCPD-PE02(910)
I-85 Extension from I-59/I-20 near the Mississippi State Line
NE of Cuba to I-65 near Montgomery
Various Counties, Alabama

Purpose and Need Statement

 In the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), enacted August 10, 2005, the United States Congress provided $100 million for the I-85 Extension Project, to substantially augment previous smaller funding amounts.  The purpose of this project is to provide a connecting link in the freeway/interstate system between I-85 in Montgomery, Alabama, and I-59/20 near the Mississippi state line.  The study area includes large parts of six Black Belt Counties (Dallas, Hale, Lowndes, Marengo, Perry, and Sumter), as well as Autauga and Montgomery Counties.  A new interstate connector will improve system linkage, provide a safe and efficient transportation corridor, and will enhance economic opportunities for the Black Belt and other areas in the region.