05/04/2026
The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) is preparing to open the new Intracoastal Waterway Bridge with a redesigned traffic pattern aimed at improving travel to the state’s coastal communities ahead of the busy summer season.
As crews complete final construction on two southbound lanes at the north roundabout, drivers heading south on State Route 161, known as the Beach Express, will encounter a temporary detour beginning Sunday, May 10, a news release from ALDOT said.
The detour will start at 7 a.m. May 10 and remain in place through Wednesday, May 13. During that time, island-bound traffic will be redirected from SR-161 to SR-308, formerly the Foley Beach Express, and then to SR-59 to reach Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan. Local traffic will still be allowed to travel south on SR-161 until the closure at County Road 8, also known as Coastal Gateway Boulevard.
“While short-term detours can be inconvenient, this is an important step toward opening a traffic pattern,” said ALDOT’s James Gordon in the release. “The goal is a smoother trip and improved safety.”
To reduce congestion during the detour, ALDOT will adjust and actively manage signal timings along SR-59 to keep vehicles moving as efficiently as possible.
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📷: Courtesy of ALDOT
