Yellowhammer Times

The Maplesville District of the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) manages a diverse range of road maintenance responsibilities across Bibb and Chilton counties. This includes maintaining local state routes and nearly 30 miles of interstate, as well as operating busy rest areas that function continuously.

Sky Hallmon, who joined ALDOT in 2020 with over two decades of experience in county government, has been the District Administrator since September 2021. He oversees a team of 55 employees tasked with keeping roads and rest areas operational. Staffing challenges exist, particularly for Transportation Maintenance Technicians, but Hallmon credits his team's dedication for the district's success.

"Our employees are what make the district run," Hallmon said. "They take their jobs seriously, operate professionally and genuinely care about making our roads and rest areas safe for the traveling public."

Hallmon explained that no day is typical in an ALDOT district. Tasks can vary from handling permitting issues to addressing project matters or maintenance needs. The district's three rest areas require a responsive team, especially since I-65 rest areas accommodate up to 3,700 visitors on summer Fridays.

"It’s a constant job making sure everything is running smoothly at the rest areas, but it’s also an important job," Hallmon said.

He expressed enthusiasm for upcoming projects on I-65, including bridge replacement and median improvements currently in design. "I know managing traffic in those work zones will be a challenge, but the finished product will improve safety and potentially increase capacity on that stretch of interstate," he noted.

Hallmon emphasized the importance of his team: "Our team shows up every day with the goal of improving the safety, cleanliness, and appearance of our roadways and rest areas," he said. "We look out for one another and for the public. It’s a pleasure to work with and lead this group of men and women."

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