CONTEXT:
In recent years, we’ve all had the pleasure of witnessing the magnificent and ongoing surge of progress happening throughout Mobile. The character and appeal of our City has never been better. This transformation is evident on so many levels, both tangible and intangible, and taken together, they are reshaping and improving the quality of life for all residents in our City. Fortunately, the leadership of our City has included infrastructure improvements among the priorities and vision for our future. From City parks to water access, from sidewalks to airports and from Broad Street and beyond, Mobile’s potential is now becoming a wonderful new reality.
There are, however, pockets of neglect and aging that interrupt our City’s “string of pearls”. One such spot is the Underpass on Old Shell Road, at Sage Avenue. It is a familiar Mobile landmark, and it sits upon one of our City’s main east-west traffic corridors. For motorists, it provides a superbly convenient, uninterrupted route beneath the trains that slowly rumble overhead. Today, however, as evidenced by its current condition, the site is a poor reflection on the growing luster of both midtown and the community at large. In sum, the entire space is in dire need of a fresh and vibrant re-creation.
THREE-WAY ENDEAVOR:
To be fair, the footprint of the Underpass is located in an area of multiple domains (City and Railroad), so no one can unilaterally bring about its restoration. It is in that context that our non-profit was formed in 2021 to bring together the City, the Railroad and the Community to all work together for a common, attractive and sustainable solution to this decades old problem.
TRANSFORMATION
Both the City and Railroad have put their time and shoulders into this project, both seeing the vision of what could be, and everyone realizing the positive impact it would have upon our City’s ongoing momentum and progress. The transformation will include new landscaping, hardscape retaining walls, green plantings, new sidewalks, sprinkler system, LED lighting and power washing of the stained concrete support pillars. Painting of the trestle itself is not within our permissible scope.
To be clear, this project does not fully address the temporary flooding that occurs 5+ days per year when torrential rains overwhelm the surrounding drainage infrastructure. The City will, however, be cleaning the storm drains and performing other minor drainage improvements. The larger downstream issues will remain as is. Consequently, the flood waters will still occasionally rise and fall, having little, if any, impact upon the new hardscape/landscape areas. Importantly, for the other 360 days of each year, this project will successfully transform the site into a source of pride and enjoyment for neighborhood residents, pedestrians, motorists and all who call Mobile their home.
PROJECT OWNER
Our non-profit is the "project owner", we will engage all contractors, and we are responsible for the fundraising.
PHASE I FUNDRAISING - INITIAL PROJECT COST:
The cost of all architectural design, site engineering, clearing & grading, hardscapes, landscaping, lighting and soft costs was estimated at $467,000 in 2023. Thanks to the City and 8 other Underwriting Sponsors who generously stepped forward with advance-major-gifts, the estimated project cost is, remarkably, fully funded! Together, these 9 Sponsors contributed $478,000 in gifts and pledges. That gladly said, we are tentatively set to begin construction in June, when school traffic takes a summer break.
PHASE II FUNDRAISING - ONGOING UPKEEP:
Of equal importance, is to ensure the lasting vibrancy and vitality of the restored site via ongoing upkeep, maintenance and care. The Underpass site cannot, once restored, be allowed to return to its current state. Our non-profit has assumed responsibility for this essential role. In that respect, a separate advance fundraising initiative has been underway. Its purpose is to enlist other Underwriting Sponsors to help establish a $150,000 endowment fund for the recurring annual cost of upkeep & additions, any cost overruns vs budget and the minimal operating expense of our non-profit. Once again, thanks to 18 additional Underwriting Sponsors who generously responded to this phase with advance-major-gifts, our endowment fund has a solid start toward its goal. Together, these 18 Sponsors contributed $69,500 in gifts and pledges.
FUNDRAISING SUMMARY:
In sum, the combined amount of gifts to this entire endeavor now total $547,500. Of that, $250,000 (46%) is from the City of Mobile and $297,500 (54%) is from the community via Foundations, corporations and individuals. We are tremendously grateful for each of our 27 Underwriting Sponsors whose advance-major-gifts are largely providing the financial fuel necessary to make this project come to life. As a lasting tribute to their philanthropy and civic minded sprit, our board of directors intend to display a bronze plaque at each entrance to the Underpass site listing the name of each Underwriting Sponsor.
THE UNDERWRITING SPONSORS:
NEED FOR ONGOING COMMUNITY DONATIONS:
While the "advance-major-gifts" phases of our fundraising efforts via Underwiring Sponsors is rapidly coming to a close, we are still in need of additional general contributions from the community. Your tax-deductible gift of $25 - $50 - $100 - $250 - $500 or any amount will help build and fully establish the all-important endowment fund. The community is a central aspect of this endeavor, and your support will help ensure that this highly visible site will remain a fresh and sustainable part of Mobile's energy, character, beauty and lure. Please "click" the donate tab in the menu bar to make your contribution online or via U. S Mail.
SPECIAL THANKS AND CONCLUSION
Special thanks are due to Mayor Sandy Stimpson, City Engineer Nick Amberger, City Council member Cory Penn, Mississippi Export Railroad’s Kate Luce Bourgeois and Tonya Gilmore. It is because of their collective support and cooperation that the Underpass site can now become a living and vibrant amenity for our community.
More than just a vastly improved area, the “new” Underpass will be yet another Mobile example of how cooperation coupled with community support has the power to positively impact the shape and future of our City. Its completion is sure to make Mobile a better place for all to see, visit and live.
01/13
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