HJR71 Alabama 2014 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Low Interest

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Dickie Drake
Republican
Co-Sponsors: Alan Baker Ken Johnson William Roberts John W. Rogers Howard Sanderford Duwayne Bridges Oliver Robinson Wayne Johnson Rod Scott Steve Clouse Ralph Howard K.L. Brown
Session: Regular Session 2014
Title: George Watson, Charles Thomas, Matthew Leonard Medal of Honor Memorial Parkway, the portion of I-459 in Jefferson Co. near Liberty Park from the west boundary of I-459 at U.S. Highway 280 to the east boundary of I-459 at I-20, named
Summary: Alabama designated a portion of I-459 in Jefferson County as the George Watson, Charles Thomas, Matthew Leonard Medal of Honor Memorial Parkway to honor three Medal of Honor recipients.
What This Bill Does
Designates the stretch of I-459 in Jefferson County near Liberty Park—from the west boundary at U.S. Highway 280 to the east boundary at I-20—as the George Watson, Charles Thomas, Matthew Leonard Medal of Honor Memorial Parkway. It directs officials to place and maintain markers and signage for this name in a way approved by the Department of Transportation. The designation honors three African-American Medal of Honor recipients: George Watson, Charles Thomas, and Matthew Leonard.

Who It Affects
Residents and travelers on I-459 in Jefferson County near Liberty Park who will see the memorial designation on signs
Families and communities of George Watson, Charles Thomas, and Matthew Leonard
Alabama Department of Transportation and other state or local officials responsible for road signage and maintenance

Key Provisions
Designates the specified portion of I-459 as the George Watson, Charles Thomas, Matthew Leonard Medal of Honor Memorial Parkway
Requires placement and maintenance of markers along the designated stretch
Requires signage to designate the stretch as the Medal of Honor Memorial Parkway in a manner approved by the Department of Transportation

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Resolutions, Legislative