U.S. Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., celebrated securing more than $3 million in funding for the University of West Alabama and the city of Livingston on Wednesday.
The $3.093 million appropriation, secured by Britt, who serves on the Homeland Security Subcommittee as Appropriations chair, was included in the FY26 Homeland Security Appropriations Act.
Britt on Wednesday described the funds, which will go toward upgrading storm drainage on UWA’s campus that runs off into the Sucarnoochee River, as “a meaningful investment in the University of West Alabama and the city of Livingston.”
“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,” Britt stated. “This funding will result in a safer, more resilient community for Livingston and the entire UWA campus.”
The city will partner with the university to make improvements to Livingston’s storm drainage system. Britt’s office highlighted flooding on UWA’s sidewalks, roads, parking lots and facilities, caused by the outdated drainage system during severe weather events.
The appropriation was met with support from UWA President Todd G. Fritch and Livingston Mayor Bird Dial.
“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.”
Dial, who described the funds as “a big win for Livingston and for The University of West Alabama,” emphasized the appropriations’ importance to public safety and future developments in Livingston and at UWA.
“When we improve infrastructure, we are not just fixing streets or sidewalks—we are making our community safer, stronger, and better prepared for growth,” the mayor stated. “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.”
