U.S. Senator Katie Britt Directly Secures Over $3 Million for the University of West Alabama, City of Livingston

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Chair of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, recently directly secured $3.093 million for University of West Alabama (UWA) and the City of Livingston in the Fiscal Year (FY) 26 Homeland Security Appropriations Act. This funding will support upgrading and expanding a storm drain on the UWA campus in downtown Livingston. In total, Senator Britt directly secured more than $14.97 million for Alabama in FY26 Homeland Security appropriations funding.

"This $3 million is a meaningful investment in the University of West Alabama and the city of Livingston," said Senator Britt."Alabamians know all too well the impacts of severe weather, and it's critical that we mitigate potential flooding, infrastructure damage, and threats to public safety in the aftermath of a weather event. This funding will result in a safer, more resilient community for Livingston and the entire UWA campus."

Photo courtesy of the University of West Alabama

The City of Livingston will partner with UWA on a joint project to upgrade and expand a section of storm drainage infrastructure within the city that is located in the center of the UWA campus and exits to runoff ditches into the Sucarnoochee River. This collaborative effort to improve disaster mitigation infrastructure will improve safety for both students and local residents.

The current drainage system is outdated and unable to drain during heavy rain which causes flooding to UWA's campus sidewalks, roads, parking lots, and some facilities. This outdated drainage infrastructure is not reliable for water runoff from current facilities and is a challenge for any future construction sites in that area of campus.

Photo courtesy of the University of West Alabama

"We are deeply appreciative of Senator Britt's continued support for our region, and we are honored to partner with the City of Livingston to activate the infrastructure development project that will improve safety, strengthen campus and community connectivity, support future construction, and help position Livingston and Sumter County for new investment and job creation,"said UWA President Dr. Todd G. Fritch.

"Every step that we take to enhance safety and livability for our students to be active in our community strengthens their connection to the University and surrounding areas," Fritch said. "Collaboration with city, state, county, and federal entities is critical to the University's ability to serve our students in through growth and development of the place they call home while they are here."

"This is a big win for Livingston and for The University of West Alabama," said Livingston Mayor Bird Dial. "When we improve infrastructure, we are not just fixing streets or sidewalks-we are making our community safer, stronger, and better prepared for growth. UWA is part of the heart of Livingston, and what helps the University helps our city, our families, and our future. We appreciate Senator Britt's support and the partnership that helped make this possible."

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