Tuscaloosa · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Tuscaloosa public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Street vacation on 31st Street East
The council was to hold a public hearing on giving up a portion of a public street. Vacations can affect access and future development around the affected property.
Highway 69 and US-82 ALDOT agreements
Four agreements with the state cover removing an outdated signal at McFarland and Rice Mine, upgrading SR-69 signals, and lighting the Woolsey Finnell Bridge and SR-69 South corridors.
River District Parking Lot Improvements
A $339,000 engineering services contract with TTL, Inc. was on the agenda for River District parking lot improvements — early design work for downtown-adjacent parking.
Subdivision regulation updates (Article IV standards)
Staff is rewriting the city's subdivision rules, rolling through Article IV standards — streets, cul-de-sacs, lot sizes, setbacks, and utility easements. Most provisions carry over from current rules; the real debate is expected next month.
Downtown lighting and crosswalks
The city hired an engineering firm to design Phase 1 of downtown lighting, and Mayor Maddox indicated more trees are coming to Greensboro Avenue.
Ash Street sidewalk project
The council was scheduled to consider a $757,144 construction award to GFC Construction plus a $131,923 design contract for Phase 1 of the Ash Street sidewalk. It would add pedestrian infrastructure along Ash Street.
Annual bridge inspections for 30 city bridges
The city must inspect 30 bridges each year under federal rules; a $74,745 contract with John B. Galloway keeps that safety work on schedule through 2026.
Reimbursing cleanup of road spills
Spilled gravel, concrete and debris on city roads have been eating into public works crews' days and budget. The ordinance lets the city bill spilling companies for labor, disposal and fuel costs.