A 2018 highway expansion, the historic Black community of Shiloh in Elba, Alabama, began experiencing severe, continuous flooding. An ABC News investigation revealed that highway stormwater runoff is being intentionally channeled directly onto these residents' properties.
The toxic runoff has caused catastrophic foundation damage, leaving homes structurally unsound and stripping families of their generational wealth. Beyond the structural ruin, residents face the dangerous health and safety risks of living right next to an exposed methane gas pipeline.
Dr. Robert Bullard, the "Father of Environmental Justice," has returned to his native Elba to lead the fight. He brought a team of environmental, legal, and health experts to document the damage and gather community testimonials to force systemic accountability.
In 2017–2018, the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) widened and elevated U.S. Route 84 by 10 to 15 feet near Shiloh (Elba, Alabama)
Elevating the road placed Shiloh in a low-lying bowl, funneling massive amounts of stormwater runoff and red clay directly into the residential area during heavy rains.
Residents report zero flooding issues before the project, but faced major floods over a dozen times after inferior 2019 mitigation efforts failed.
Homes have suffered cracked foundations, mold, septic tank overflows, and severe erosion.
Properties have become uninsurable, destroying generational wealth and land inheritance for Black families.
Floodwaters have brought dangerous pests, including mosquitoes and water moccasins, forcing children to wade through high water just to reach school buses.
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) investigated racial discrimination claims and reached a voluntary resolution agreement with ALDOT.
ALDOT began a third drainage improvement attempt in mid-2026, though residents remain skeptical of its effectiveness.
The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) filed a lawsuit against ALDOT in September 2026, challenging restrictive covenants that prevent residents from suing over the floods and demanding immediate, permanent relief.
The Clock Is Ticking: ALDOT Needs to Hold Public Meeting on Drainage, Improvement Project in Shiloh Community!