Tom Warne Report, 4 September 2013
The estimated cost of Alabama’s Northern Beltline project has risen to $5.45 billion, according to new reports, a $700 million increase from previous projected costs. The Federal Highway Administration published the new figure in its project status report, which lists projects over $500 million across the country in planning or construction stages.
Tony Harris with the Alabama Department of Transportation said the agency’s cost estimates are much lower, sitting at about $4.7 billion. He said the federal government’s numbers may figure inflation into their estimates, which could explain the variation.
ALDOT is currently waiting on a permit to begin work on the first phase of the 52-mile highway project, which will extend between Alabama 75 and Alabama 79. The FHWA status report lists the completion date for the full project of December 2048.
