I-565 and County Line Road finally meet

Gov. Robert Bentley is introduced at the dedication ceremony of the I-565 — County Line Road interchange April 10. Madison Mayor Troy Trulock is at left, and Limestone County Commission Chairman Mark Yarbrough is at right. (Record Photo/Nick Sellers)

By Nick Sellers | Staff Writer

MADISON – The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the much-anticipated interchange at Interstate–565 and County Line Road officially took place in Limestone County, yet the moment was big enough to bring out County Commission chairs Dale Strong of Madison County and Mark Yarbrough of Limestone County for the occasion.

A slew of other Madison city, Madison County and state officials were also there to mark the occasion, highlighted by Gov. Robert Bentley who was present for the project’s groundbreaking ceremony in December 2013.

“This interchange will significantly improve our quality of life,” Bentley said.

The project creates easier access to the interstate on exit 7 for Madison’s burgeoning population that lives on or just off of County Line Road. It also eases the pressure on the exit at Wall-Triana Highway, which was many Madison residents’ only option for more than a year.

State reps. Mike Ball and Mac McCutcheon were on hand to give their blessings on the interchange.

“[Better] transportation makes this place a better place to live,” McCutcheon said.

Yarbrough spoke on the benefits of the project immediately after Strong, in a show of apparent unity as the city of Madison continues to expand into Limestone County.

Madison residents who live on County Line Road, such as Dee Dee McGee, were overjoyed to celebrate the opening, which was weeks ahead of the original completion date of May 1.

“We are very excited,” she said. “Our whole family, even my 10-year-old, is excited.”

Curt Brannon, CEO of SCS Worx on County Line Road, said he anticipates the easier commute to both Huntsville and Decatur to help business at his company.