Ethan Madison & Faris Zaibaq
November 3, 2025 2025-12-09 0:34
Ethan Madison & Faris Zaibaq
School: Alabama State University (social work); UAB School of Dentistry (Ethan); UAB Heersink School of Medicine (Faris)
Academic Mentor: Stefan Kertesz, MD, MSc
Site Mentor:James Fowler, PE (Director of BDOT)
Site: Birmingham Department of Transportation
Ethan and Faris helped those who live, work, and visit Birmingham by creating safer infrastructure for active transportation in Birmingham. They worked with the Birmingham Department of Transportation and community partners to build community support for infrastructure that will change the way those in Birmingham interact with and get around the city, moving more actively and safely. They conducted a road diet along 1st Ave S in Woodlawn in order to improve pedestrian/cyclist safety and accessibility. This included stop sign and crosswalk installation, adding more street parking and bike lanes.
Project Results
- After the improvements, community testimonials said:
- Easier to access local businesses in Woodlawn due to increased cycle lanes, crosswalks, traffic calming,
- and parking spots
- Slower vehicle speeds along 1st Ave South
- Increased revenue of local businesses