Thanx Thunder89
Btw, what's the 89' for?
I was in Decatur a couple of days ago, so here are some updates:
Downtown is looking GREAT! The streetscaping is progressing, but there are some noticeable differences. Crosswalks have been replaced by paver-paved walks, and sidewalks are being repaved. New trees are being planted, and things are looking a lot more fresh.
The North Alabama Center For The Arts is progressing nicely. It looks more modern than I expected. It still maintains the downtown feel, but on the northern side of the building are some large windows that reflect a more modern feel. So, it's a nice mix.
Aside from that, there are some vertical constructions for the new "Kohls Shopping Center" at 6th Ave (US 31), and The Beltline (AL 67). Olive Garden is progressing well, and is about 75% finished at the southeast corner of The Beltline (AL 67) and Veterans' Drive. The Kroger gas station is currently being constructed about a fifth of a mile South of The Beltline (AL 67).
Also, the DecaturDaily has announced that Phase 3 of The Beltline widening is going to begin within a few months. Phase 2 is the most northern end as Al 67 attaches from AL 24 to AL 20/ALT US 72. Phase 3 will be quite similar to Phase 2 as it requires the reconstruction of an overpass (the current one is incapable of handling the future capacity). Anyways, this is the most difficult portion of The Beltline expansion because it deals with involvement of other oldest part of the city that Beltline Road connects. The road will be reduced to one lane for a long amount of time. People that have been in Decatur since the 80s shouldn't be surprised as they had to endure the road when it was a simple 2-lane bypass "back in the day."
All the same, we are a few years closer to the complete widening of The Beltline; a road that used to be considered the "Deadliest 7 Miles in Alabama."
Either way, some great things have been happening in Decatur. Things that will not only impact Decatur, but the whole of North Alabama.