US House approves spending package with $17M for Alabama Avenue renovation project

A project to restore 14 buildings along Alabama Avenue is a step closer to reality, Selma Mayor Johnny Moss III announced Monday.

The U.S. House of Representatives approved a spending package that includes $1,656,000 for the Alabama Avenue Revitalization Project, “marking a significant step forward in restoring one of Selma’s most historic corridors,” according to a news release from the Selma mayor Monday.

“While final enactment of the federal spending package remains subject to approval by the U.S. Senate and the President’s signature, inclusion in the House-passed bill positions Selma strongly to move forward once funds are released,” the release states.

The funding, secured through Community Project Funding and submitted by Congresswoman Terri Sewell, will support structural assessments, renovations and the adaptive reuse of 14 existing buildings along Alabama Avenue, according to the release.

“This investment represents real momentum for downtown Selma,” Moss said. “Alabama Avenue has long been a symbol of both our rich history and our unrealized potential. This funding moves us closer to restoring these buildings, attracting new economic activity and honoring the legacy of this corridor while preparing it for the future.”

“Rebuilding Selma happens step by step,” Moss said. “This is one of those steps that matters, not just on paper, but for the long-term economic health of our city.”

Planning and Development Director Danielle Wooten said, “This type of catalytic investment reinforces confidence in downtown Selma and helps unlock continued public improvements and private reinvestment, building by building and block by block. We are grateful to Congresswoman Sewell and her staff for their continued advocacy.”