During a recent Montgomery County Commission meeting held on January 7, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding the proposed Wares Ferry Road interchange and its implications for local communities, particularly those in rural, low-income areas predominantly inhabited by people of color. A resident expressed deep disappointment over the lack of input from taxpayers in the decision-making process, particularly regarding the allocation of $100,000 for a study that could impact their properties and community.

The resident highlighted the historical context of land acquisition in the Mount Meggs, Pike Road, and Cecil communities, emphasizing that their families have lived in the area for over 200 years. They voiced concerns about ongoing annexation by the town of Pike Road, which they believe is occurring without proper consultation or compensation for affected residents. The speaker described this situation as a form of economic injustice and a violation of civil rights, noting that previous infrastructure projects had already displaced families and destroyed historic lands.

The discussion also touched on the inadequacies of current transportation planning, with the resident criticizing the design of existing roadways and the increasing congestion in the area. They proposed several solutions to improve traffic management, including installing traffic lights, speed bumps, and better signage, rather than constructing new interchanges that may exacerbate existing problems.

In response, a commissioner acknowledged the resident's concerns and clarified that the Montgomery County Commission was not the primary planner for the interchange; rather, it was the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) that initiated the study. The commissioner recognized the traffic issues in the Montgomery Industrial Park area and noted that the feasibility study was a collaborative effort involving multiple stakeholders, including the town of Pike Road and the city of Montgomery.

The meeting underscored the ongoing tensions between community needs and governmental planning, highlighting the importance of inclusive decision-making processes that consider the voices of all affected residents. As discussions continue, the commission faces the challenge of addressing both infrastructure demands and the rights of long-standing community members.