Neel-Schaffer is playing a major role in the West Alabama Highway program, a transformative effort to widen and connect U.S. 43 and State Route 69 across 75 miles between Thomasville and Moundville.
Serving as a subconsultant, the firm is providing roadway, structural, and hydraulic design services while also managing other subconsultants on the design team.
Neel-Schaffer’s scope includes line and grade development for 37 miles of roadway; full roadway and hydraulic design for more than 16 miles; design of five bridges; and field inspection services for approximately 25 miles of construction.
The firm’s current portion of the work reflects a substantial scope within the overall program and the responsibility involved in this project focused on improving mobility and economic opportunity across west Alabama.
Connecting Communities
The new corridor will link existing four-lane segments in Thomasville and Moundville, completing a continuous north-south route between Mobile and Tuscaloosa. The improvements will provide safer travel, reduce congestion, and bring long-needed infrastructure to historically underserved communities.
When the project launched, it marked several important milestones: The first Progressive Design-Build project for the Alabama DOT, and a major step forward in Neel-Schaffer’s strategic focus on alternative delivery.
Since then, the effort has only grown in complexity, touching teams across the organization.
Rising to the Challenge
“We are proud to be part of the team delivering a project that has been a priority for the State of Alabama,” said Lance Taylor, PE, Alabama Area Manager. “Our team has brought deep expertise and dedication to this effort, and it reflects the professionalism Neel-Schaffer brings to complex transportation programs.”
Taylor also highlighted the opportunity created by Alabama’s first Progressive Design-Build project.
“This project has further strengthened our Design-Build capabilities,” he added. “Jennifer Peace (PE, DBIA) played a key role as Deputy Roadway Manager, helping guide the project team through a fast-paced delivery environment.”
“This project represents exactly where we are headed as a firm,” said Chris Sellers, Executive Vice President and East Region Manager. “It combines technical excellence, collaboration across offices, and the ability to deliver at scale on one of the most visible programs in the state. The work being done here positions Neel-Schaffer for future alternative delivery opportunities across the Southeast.”
Sellers also emphasized the people behind the progress.
“What makes this effort especially meaningful is the way our team came together to meet ambitious goals and high expectations,” he said. “That level of coordination and shared accountability is what sets Neel-Schaffer apart, and it reflects our commitment to our clients, partners, and communities.”
Building for the Future
When complete, the West Alabama Highway will serve as a vital transportation corridor to the Gulf Coast while supporting long-term economic development throughout the region.
For Neel-Schaffer, the project continues to showcase what’s possible when technical expertise, strategic growth initiatives, and Care, Service, and Excellence come together.
