Highway 78 Shoulder Work Resumes This Morning

De Armanville, AL · May 4, 2026

Happy Monday—the humidity is holding off for one more day, but the road crews aren't. Expect some minor delays on Highway 78 as shoulder maintenance resumes near the intersection this morning, so give yourself an extra five minutes if you’re heading into Oxford.

📰 The Lead

As we settle into the first full week of May, the focus for many residents is shifting toward the evolving landscape along the Highway 78 corridor. Over the weekend, local discussions centered on the proposed infrastructure updates that aim to better connect our corner of the county with the growing commercial hubs in Oxford. The balance remains delicate: maintaining the quiet, wooded character of our community while ensuring that the roads can handle the increasing "spillover" traffic from the I-20 interchange.

County planners are expected to review new traffic flow data later this week, which could influence how future residential permits are handled in the unincorporated areas. For those of us who appreciate the slower pace here, these technical meetings are the front line for preserving the neighborhood's rural feel. We are seeing a concerted effort to ensure that as the city grows eastward, the transition into our residential stretches remains intentional rather than accidental.

🏙️ Local Pulse

  • Utility Expansion Discussions Move Eastward The Oxford City Council is reviewing plans tomorrow that include extending modern utility lines closer to the De Armanville line. This move is a precursor to potential residential development and could impact local property values and future annexation discussions.

  • School Zone Safety Patrols Increase With the academic year winding down, Calhoun County deputies are increasing their presence in school zones starting this morning. They are focusing on the transition areas where highway speeds drop significantly near local bus stops and campus entrances.

  • Outdoor Burn Safety Reminder Issued Local fire officials are asking residents to check wind conditions before any yard clearing today. While recent rains helped, the rising afternoon temperatures and shifting spring breezes can quickly turn a controlled brush pile into a hazard for neighboring properties.

🌤️ Today's Outlook

Expect a pleasant and mostly sunny Monday with a high near 79 degrees. A light breeze from the east will keep things comfortable through the afternoon. Tonight will be clear and cool, with temperatures dipping to a low of 56 degrees—perfect for keeping the windows open.

📅 What's On Around Town

  • Oxford: Star Wars Day at the Library Oxford Public Library, 110 E 6th St 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM A "May the Fourth" celebration featuring themed crafts and a scavenger hunt through the stacks. It is a great, free option for families looking to burn off some after-school energy.

  • Anniston: Community Yoga in the Park Zinn Park, 101 W 14th St 5:30 PM A short drive for a donation-based, all-levels session on the grass. It is a popular way for the regional community to reset for the work week.

  • Oxford: Youth Soccer League Games Choccolocco Park, 954 Leon Smith Pkwy 6:00 PM The spring season is in full swing. Even if you don't have a player in the game, the walking trails around the lake offer a great view of the action and the sunset.

  • Anniston: Monday Night Trivia Coldwater Mountain Brewpub, 1208 Walnut Ave 6:30 PM Test your knowledge at this weekly local favorite. It’s a 15-minute drive for those looking for a competitive but laid-back evening with neighbors.

📸 Spotlight & Story

  • Choccolocco Creek
    • While many see it simply as a landmark on the way to the park, Choccolocco Creek is the environmental backbone of our valley. The name is derived from the Muscogee words "chahko" (shoal) and "lako" (big). For generations, it has served as a vital drainage system and a hidden gem for local anglers. Its health is a direct reflection of our local stewardship, acting as a quiet reminder of the natural beauty that defines the space between our homes and the growing city.

De Armanville Daily Digest — compiled from local sources as of 6 AM. For breaking updates, follow your local newsrooms.

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