By now, you may be aware of two major road-widening projects that are underway in Baldwin County. The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) announced plans to develop SR-181 into a four-lane divided highway from SR-104 North to US-31. The two existing lanes are slated to be used for southbound traffic, while the newly added lanes will be used for northbound traffic. Similar efforts to covert a two-lane section of US-31 into a four-lane divided highway between US-98 and SR-181 are slated to be completed by the end of 2021. Let’s see what this means for properties affected by these construction projects.
Eminent Domain Action in Baldwin County
When a government entity proposes to convert private property for public use, they are exercising their power of eminent domain. State and federal law require “just compensation” to property owners in exchange for their land. Transportation projects like those in Baldwin County often trigger condemnation and eminent domain actions, which can be difficult for residents and property owners affected by these actions. As these projects progress, property owners should be aware of their rights during all phases of the condemnation process in order to ensure that they receive a fair and just amount of compensation.
Understanding Your Rights
If the government agency determines that they’ll need to seize your property in order to support highway projects, they will take steps to appraise your property and offer you compensation in exchange for your land. Unfortunately, these government entities will often attempt to give you a lowball offer, and you may be tempted to simply accept it and move on. However, it’s essential that you understand your right to reject this initial offer and demand the full amount to which you’re entitled under the law. In some cases, your case can be appealed to the circuit court, where a team of jurors will determine the amount of just compensation you should be awarded. When it comes to condemnation matters, it’s highly recommended that you discuss your situation with a knowledgeable and experienced condemnation attorney to ensure that your best interests are sufficiently protected at every phase of the legal process.
If you think the current Eastern Shore MPO projects will impact your Baldwin County property, contact Sewell Sewell Beard LLC today at (205) 544-2350 to speak to a trusted condemnation attorney.
No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
