New Cahaba Road roundabout complete, ribbon cutting scheduled

A new roundabout and other improvements to Cahaba Road will be highlighted at a ribbon cutting on July 1.

Changes include the roundabout, bike paths, new and wider sidewalks, additional lighting, a new entrance to the zoo and a new entrance to the gardens.

These updates are expected to create a safer entry to the two attractions, ease of traffic flow, more convenient pedestrian accessibility and improved aesthetics for the surrounding community. It also allows guests to visit both the zoo and the gardens without moving their car.

“We at The Gardens are certainly fortunate to have the Birmingham Zoo as across-the-street neighbors on Cahaba Road,” said Birmingham Botanical Gardens Executive Director and CEO Frederick R. Spicer Jr. “Now, thanks to a federal SAFETEA grant, former U.S. Representative Spencer Bachus' efforts and matching funds from the City of Birmingham, that road is much safer and much more beautiful. These improvements will enable the pedestrian connectivity in our neighborhood that we have long sought.”

On July 1, Birmingham Mayor William A. Bell, Sr. will address the updates at 10 a.m.  at the roundabout.

“This project connects two great attractions, making them one ultimate destination,” Bell said. “This work symbolizes a great partnership between the City of Birmingham, Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Birmingham Zoo. Working closely together, we are continuing to make the City of Birmingham better for all of its residents and for all of our visitors.”

In addition to Bell, attendees will include members of the Birmingham City Council; community leaders from the Birmingham vicinity; and representatives from Sain Associates, Alabama Department of Transportation, Veteran’s Landscaping Company, Birmingham Zoo and Birmingham Botanical Gardens.