Birmingham, traffic — Attention Pelham drivers—your commute is about to get easier! (Bham Now)

Big news for Pelham drivers: a major road project years in the making is officially moving forward—and it could make a huge difference for both traffic and emergency response times.

At a recent Pelham City Council meeting, city leaders confirmed that federal funding for the Railroad Crossing Elimination Project along Shelby County Road 52 has been fully approved. That means the city can finally start spending the money and moving ahead.

What’s changing on County Road 52

If you’ve ever been stuck waiting on a train along County Road 52 or Lee Street, you know the struggle. This project will permanently eliminate both railroad crossings by building a bridge over the tracks and realigning the roadway.

The plan also includes updates to the intersection at U.S. Highway 31, widening the road east of 31 and making other improvements along the corridor. Since County Road 52 is a major east–west route connecting Pelham, Helena and I-65, these changes could ease some serious congestion.

Big win for first responders as well—by separating the road from the railroad, emergency vehicles will have reliable access across town — no more waiting on a passing train during a crisis.

What happens next

The city will now begin environmental studies, engineering, utility coordination and property acquisition — all required steps for federally funded projects. Construction isn’t expected to start until 2029, with completion set for 2031.

It’s a long timeline, but for a road that sees this much traffic, city leaders say the wait will be worth it.

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