U.S. Senator Katie Britt met with community leaders and supportive first responders on the Birmingham Northern Beltline site on Wednesday to discuss construction progress on the highway.

According to Sen. Britt (R-Montgomery), “The Birmingham Northern Beltline is essential not just for our community, but for the entire state and region.”

She added, “This is precisely the kind of project I advocated for, and I believe federal transportation funds should be directed towards it.”

The first segment of the Northern Beltline is projected to link Pinson’s routes 75 and 79, with traffic expected to flow by 2026. Future segments aim to connect this initial segment to I-65 near Gardendale and I-59 north of Trussville.

Eventually, the Northern Beltline will span 52 miles as interstate 422, stretching from I-59 in northern Jefferson County to the I-459 interchange close to Bessemer. This new “Northern Loop” is anticipated to stimulate economic growth, alleviate traffic in Birmingham, and allow first responders quick access to communities.

Fultondale Fire Chief Justin Mackenzie expressed that the Birmingham-Northern Beltline will significantly aid in emergency situations.

“It bolsters our economy, generates jobs, and enhances infrastructure. But, as a fire chief, I’m most excited about its impact on public safety—what it can do to save lives,” he shared.

Britt noted her position on the US Senate Budget Committee emphasizes that improving safety is a key reason she supports this project.

“First responders leave home every day to ensure our safety,” she remarked, highlighting that timeliness can literally be the difference between life and death.

Britt, along with U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover), has secured $525 million in federal funding with help from Alabama’s Congressional delegation.

However, Alabama hasn’t committed any matching funds for the Northern Beltline, relying heavily on federal support, which has resulted in sporadic construction progress based on funding availability.

A report from the Appalachian Regional Committee indicates that the Northern Beltline could reduce traffic congestion in northern Jefferson County and support local economic development.

A bid for the next construction phase was awarded to McInnis Construction in May 2024, with plans to complete the initial connection by late 2026, including a bridge that’s nearly two miles long.

Clay McInnis, director of safety and workforce development at McInnis Construction, stated, “From Montgomery to Washington, Alabama’s leaders are pushing for significant investments in the state’s infrastructure. We are proud to be part of Phase 1 of the Northern Beltline, which owes its advancement to years of local backing.”