Alabama's infant mortality rate declined in 2013 and the infant mortality rate for black infants fell to its lowest level ever. The state Department of Public Health said Wednesday that the 2013 rate for all infants was 8.6 deaths per 1,000 live births. That was down from 8.9 recorded in 2012. The department says the infant mortality rate among black babies was 12.6, which was the lowest since the state began keeping records in 1950. The rate among white infants rose from 6.6 in 2012 to 6.9 in 2013.
Cyclist Dies
Montgomery Police are investigating the death of a man riding a bike on Narrow Lane Road Wednesday morning. The bicyclist was struck by a car just before 6 o'clock while traveling south on the northbound side of the street. It happened between Siebels Road and Herbert Road. The victim has been identified as 22-year-old Cornelius Miller of Montgomery. The driver was not injured.
Transportation Report
TRIP, a national transportation group, released a report Wednesday that says Alabama drivers are forking out over $3 billion dollars a year in transportation costs. Montgomery ranked third in the state with local motorists spending over $1,200 each year. The study finds that drivers are losing money due to deficiencies traffic delays and a lack of desirable safety features on state roadways.
Montgomery Projects
City and County leaders met with Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce officials Wednesday for their monthly briefing. Mayor Todd Strange offered updates on a number of city projects, including the latest on the Webber building which partially collapsed in June. He said the developer is trying to move forward with renovation plans.