ALDOT has released detour routes in preparation for the 59/20 bridge closure this month

Last week, on social media and their website, the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) released alternative routes and detours motorists can take once the final phase of 59/20 Bridge  replacement project begins in the Central Business District this January.

The closure of the 59/20 Bridge in the heart of downtown Birmingham is expected to take up to 14 months.

Be Prepared

Here are maps and links of the proposed detours:

West & East Bound Mainline Detours

As you can see from the maps, which can be enlarged – HERE – if you are trying to travel the interstates through  Birmingham, ALDOT encourages you to take I-459 going east and west bound.  Obviously, I-65 can used to connect you north and south.

Local Route – West bound

West bound drivers wishing to enter downtown can take the 25th Street exit, or exit onto the Red Mountain Expressway. Those exits are expected to remain open throughout most of the project according to ALDOT.

On the Northern route  going West, you can exit Carraway Blvd and connect with Finley Blvd.

Local Route – East Bound 

Eastbound traffic (from Tuscaloosa/Bessemer) will be detoured to the Arkadelphia Road exit to Finley Boulevard to Carraway Boulevard, where they can get back on the interstate.

Bookmark this website –5920bridge.com

Over the next 14 months, your most “go to” website will be ALDOT’s https://5920bridge.com/. All traffic updates, detours and news on the construction of the new route/bridge will be this one site.

The city of Birmingham’s recent announcement extending business hours for some departments on January 14th is a good sign that construction is about to begin.

Be prepared Birmingham!