Interstate — I-65 on July 10, 2020. Barrels line interstate in preparation for work to add lanes between I-459 and Alabaster. (Pat Byington / Bham Now)

The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has begun a project to add lanes and fix bridges on I-65 between Calera and Alabaster.

The work will be performed between Exit 231 south of Calera and Exit 238 at Alabaster.

According to 2023 Census data, Calera is one of the fastest growing towns in Alabama. The city of Alabaster also approved in 2024 a new $242 million commercial development at Exit 238 on I-65.

Calera to Alabaster I-65 improvements

The ALDOT project, which was first announced by Governor Kay Ivey in August 2023, will accomplish the following tasks:

Expand this section of I-65 to six lanes
Replace eight outdated bridges, six of which are over rail tracks and two County Road 26
Ease congestion and improve traffic flow

Dunn Construction of Birmingham was awarded the first phase of the project.

Funding for the project comes from Governor Ivey’s Rebuild Alabama, a law that was passed in 2019 raising the gas tax to fund critical transportation projects throughout the state. As of 2023, more than $170 million has been awarded to cities and counties through the initiative’s two grant programs.

Expect traffic slowdowns and delays

ALDOT is telling motorists to expect delays and reduced speed limits while the project is implemented. Drivers are encouraged to visit ALGOtraffic.com or use the ALGO Traffic app for real-time traffic updates and alternate routes.

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