A stretch of State Route 225 in Baldwin County will soon carry a new name honoring generations of Americans who have served the nation.

Baldwin County Commission has approved naming all portions of Alabama State Route 225 in unincorporated areas from its intersection with U.S. Highway 31 to Interstate 65 as “American Patriots Way.” The move follows a similar resolution adopted Monday by the city of Spanish Fort, which designated the segment of the highway within its city limits under the same name.

Officials said in a news release that the designation is intended to recognize all patriots, past and present, who have served, sacrificed and continue to support and love the country. The effort comes as the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, marking two and a half centuries of freedom, resilience and the enduring pursuit of liberty.

State Route 225 carries deep historical significance in Baldwin County. The corridor connects several prominent sites, including Historic Blakeley State Park, the location of the final major battle of the Civil War, and the United States Colored Troops Heritage Trail, which honors African American soldiers who fought for the Union. It also provides access to the Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery, where thousands of veterans are buried.

The route is located near the burial site of Revolutionary War veteran Lt. Zachariah Godbold, believed to be the only known patriot from that war buried in Baldwin County.

County officials said they will work with state and local partners in the coming months to install signage and formally recognize the newly designated corridor.