I-14 in Demopolis? It’s possible

Among the resolutions passed at the Marengo County Commission Tuesday was one supporting the construction of Interstate 14 near Demopolis.

Never heard of I-14? You’re not alone.

Congressionally proposed I-14 would extend from I-10 in west Texas to I-20 at Augusta, Ga., possibly running along U.S. Highway 80.

The project is being promoted by Youth Infrastructure Coalition, headquartered in the Phenix City, Columbus, Ga., area. Three men organized the YIC to bring awareness to infrastructure projects that will make surrounding communities stronger.

The first YIC project, I-14 as proposed would run through some of the poorest parts of the nation, providing opportunity for residents, said the YIC website.

In a letter to Marengo County commissioners, the organizers said they have been working hard to pass resolutions in communities along the route. Marengo’s support brings to six the number of Alabama counties affected, with three remaining to join. In Georgia all but one county has climbed on board to support the project.

Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi already have state backing which Georgia and Alabama have yet to approve.

I-14 would piggy-back on some parts of the existing interstate system. The first portion officially opened Jan. 26, 2017, in Killeen, Texas and Fort Hood.