Oxford City Council has given the green light to extend Leon Smith Parkway with a budget of $5.6 million. The project will include extending the parkway from Choccolocco Park to the red light at Friendship Road. Mayor Alton Craft stated that upon completion of this extension, work on both the Oxford Exchange and Leon Smith Parkway will come to an end.
During the council’s regular session, the bid for the project was awarded to Midsouth Paving Inc. of Oxford. Mayor Craft expressed optimism that the construction would be finished by September, although he expected to have a more accurate completion date by the end of the week.
Mayor Craft also shared positive news regarding the city’s annual audit for fiscal year 2022. Compared to the previous year, the audit results were better. The previous year had highlighted issues with invoice data flow, which were promptly addressed by a dedicated team. Mayor Craft mentioned that the current audit featured significant one-time funding from the federal government, primarily related to COVID, amounting to over $3 million. He expressed satisfaction with the audit’s outcomes, noting that any concerns related to the water department’s reporting of COVID funding had been resolved.
Moving on to other matters, the council approved two proposals concerning the use of the Oxford Civic Center. Firstly, a two-year lease agreement was renewed with the Church of the Highlands, permitting them to hold Sunday services at the center. This agreement involves a weekly payment of $4,000. Additionally, a memorandum of agreement was approved with Alabama Power Company, allowing the Civic Center to be utilized for housing and feeding work crews, as well as storing equipment during emergency electric service outages in the Oxford, Anniston, Munford, and Heflin areas.
The extension of Leon Smith Parkway is expected to improve transportation infrastructure in Oxford while the completion of the Oxford Exchange and Leon Smith Parkway projects will contribute to the city’s overall development. The Oxford Council’s approval of the lease agreement with the Church of the Highlands reaffirms the center’s role as a versatile community space. Similarly, the memorandum of agreement with Alabama Power Company demonstrates the center’s adaptability in times of need.
By approving these proposals and projects, Oxford City Council continues to prioritize the city’s growth and the betterment of its residents. As construction progresses and completion nears, residents await the improved connectivity and economic opportunities that the extended parkway will bring. The allocation of the Civic Center for various community purposes underscores the city’s commitment to providing essential services and support during emergencies.
Overall, these decisions reflect the proactive approach taken by Oxford City Council in enhancing the city’s infrastructure and catering to the needs of its residents. With prudent financial management and a dedication to serving the community, Oxford remains focused on creating a thriving and resilient city for all.
