The bill amends Section 23-1-45 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to allow adjacent property owners to petition local governing bodies for the return of abandoned roads that were originally constructed on their property. The new legal language specifies that if a public road is abandoned and no longer serves its original purpose due to unforeseen conditions, the property owner can request the governing body to deed the land back to them. The petition will be granted unless it would impede access for other adjacent property owners, the road is part of a planned greenway trail, or the governing body can demonstrate a future use for the property.

Additionally, the bill modifies the authority of the Director of Transportation regarding the acquisition of rights-of-way for state roads. It clarifies that if a county or municipality refuses to acquire the necessary rights-of-way, the Director may proceed with the acquisition. The act is set to take effect on June 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 23-1-45
Engrossed: 23-1-45
Enrolled: 23-1-45