Governor Ivey cuts ribbon on $8 million infrastructure project in Jasper

JASPER, Ala. ( WIAT ) — Governor Kay Ivey was in Jasper this afternoon to cut the ribbon on an $8 million infrastructure project.

The project includes a bridge over Highway 78. The project will also feature a new traffic signal at the intersection of SR-5 and SR195, along with bridge ramps. State Senator Greg Reed says the project is about improving safety and accessibility for jasper residents and those passing through town. State leaders say the bridge will bring more economic opportunity to the Jasper business district.

“Since day one I’ve made improving infrastructure a priority and I’m proud to be here in Jasper,” remarked Ivey.

Governor Ivey says the bridge going over Highway 78 will make Jasper’s business district more accessible, opening opportunities for growth.

“Growing the economy and making sure Alabama is a state where people and businesses can thrive,” added Ivey.

Businesses in Jasper think the bridge will help sales, while the work was being completed there were long traffic delays.

“Everybody’s complaining about how much they had to go out of the way, how much time it taking to get in and out of the parking lot,” said James Turner.

Turner works at the Jasper Discount Auto Parts store, which is just a few hundred feet from the bridge, he expects to see more customers.

“Don’t have to go all the way around now can just go straight out,”

The Alabama Department of Transportation’s say the bridge will open to traffic mid-day Tuesday. The traffic light will be installed later this year.

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