Congressman Dale Strong is urging action after ongoing mail delivery problems across North Alabama.
Mail Delivery Concerns Across the District
While reflecting on the past year, Congressman Strong acknowledged progress in many areas but said postal service performance was not among them. He described mail delivery conditions in parts of his district as unacceptable, pointing to staffing shortages and facilities that are too small to manage growing mail volumes.
Strong cited examples where mail trucks struggle to load due to limited space, with packages reportedly being staged outside under temporary coverings. He said residents deserve reliable and timely mail service.
Focus on Owens Cross Roads Post Office
One of the locations drawing particular concern is the Owens Cross Roads post office. According to reports, packages have been stored outdoors, some under tents, highlighting space limitations. Longtime resident Chastity Schrimsher said the facility outgrew its capacity years ago and believes additional staff alone would not fix the problem.
She noted that limited space makes working conditions difficult and could discourage potential employees from taking postal jobs at that location.
Possible Relocation and Next Steps
The U.S. Postal Service is considering relocating the Owens Cross Roads post office within three miles of its current site. Residents have until January 16 to submit public comments on the proposal.
Schrimsher said a move to a larger facility is critical, especially for residents and businesses relying on timely mail delivery, including medications. Congressman Strong also stated that restoring a postal distribution center in Huntsville could help improve service, noting that mail delivery quality declined after operations were moved to Birmingham.
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