Downtown Streetscape Improvements

The City of Calera recently secured funding for downtown streetscape improvements via a successful grant application to the Transportation Alternatives Set-aside Program (TAP). This federal grant is earmarked to create green spaces along Highway 25, spanning the area between the railroad tracks and Highway 31. It will also continue from Hwy 31 and Hwy 25 south to 17th Avenue (see map). Additionally, this grant will facilitate the replacement and repair of sidewalks to ensure ADA compliance and enhance accessibility for all of our residents and visitors. The project's benefits also include additional on-street parking and the installation of pedestrian crosswalks, contributing to safer pedestrian movement within the downtown business district.

In addition to these enhancements, the project will also encompass curb and gutter improvements aimed at providing ample drainage solutions. 

This grant operates on an 80/20 cost-sharing basis, with the city responsible for 20% of the project's total cost, amounting to $200,000, while the grant covers the remaining 80%, totaling $800,000. This development marks a significant stride forward in our ongoing efforts to revitalize downtown Calera. Click here for a larger map image. 

Civic Experience Bronze Award Received

During an awards ceremony on Monday, the City of Calera was honored to receive the Bronze Award in the Civic Experience Awards. This prestigious nationwide accolade celebrates the efforts of local government departments, teams, and municipalities dedicated to enhancing civic experiences and, in turn, elevating resident satisfaction through digital interactions.

Calera achieved an impressive 3rd place nationally. Our recognition stemmed from several key factors, including our recent website redesign, online form submission process, the implementation of an artificial intelligence chatbot, and the overall user-friendly design of our website. This achievement is a source of immense pride for both our city and our dedicated technology department.

Our commitment to improvement remains unwavering, as we are continually exploring ways to enhance our website and streamline communication with our citizens. We acknowledge the busy lives led by our residents, often making it challenging to conduct business in person. Consequently, we have undertaken substantial initiatives to ensure that our website caters to the convenience of our citizens, especially outside regular business hours.

We strongly encourage you to explore the "Forms" section on our website, where you can address a multitude of your needs and receive answers to your inquiries without the necessity of making a phone call or visiting City Hall in person. Furthermore, our 24/7 chatbot is at your service, ready to assist with a wide range of questions whenever you need assistance. Your convenience is our priority, and we remain dedicated to serving you better.

Later this week, we will post the video that aired at the awards ceremony that spotlighted our city to the nation.

Bryant Wade holding his plaque with his family

Bryant Wade retires after 25 years of service to Calera

It is with great pride and gratitude that we celebrate Bryant Wade's remarkable 25-year journey of service to our beloved City of Calera. Bryant was recognized and presented with a plaque of appreciation at the city council meeting last night.  

Bryant Wade's journey with the city began as a construction worker for approximately 2 years. His dedication and work ethic were exemplary, and it wasn't long before he transferred to the gas department, where he has faithfully served for the past 23 years.

In the gas department, Bryant's expertise and passion for his work have been invaluable. He has played a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of gas services to our residents, businesses, and institutions. His commitment to excellence and his willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty have earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and our entire community.

As Bryant embarks on a well-deserved retirement, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for his years of service and dedication. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, professionalism, and community spirit that will continue to inspire us all.

Please join us in congratulating Bryant Wade on his retirement and thanking him for 25 incredible years of service to the City of Calera. We wish him all the best in this new chapter of his life, filled with relaxation, adventure, and the joy of spending time with loved ones.  