ALDOT wants your opinion on potential Hoover I-459 project

The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) will potentially move forward with a major infrastructure project aimed at refreshing and expanding a high-traffic segment of Interstate 459 in Hoover.

Spanning the area between Lorna Road and Little Shades Creek, the project addresses the structural integrity of aging concrete and aims to resolve persistent merging bottlenecks near the Interstate 65 interchange.

Project scope and features

The initiative focuses on two primary improvements to the corridor:

1. Concrete replacement: Complete replacement of deteriorating pavement caused by the high volume of traffic, currently exceeding 115,000 vehicles per day.
2. Auxiliary lanes: Construction of new two-mile auxiliary lanes in both directions between I-65 and Acton Road. These lanes are designed to provide more room for merging, reducing congestion often seen during peak hours.

The project is expected to be awarded to a contractor by late 2026, with construction lasting up to 15 months

Traffic detours for I-459/I-65 project in Hoover

If temporary ramp closures occur at the I-459 and I-65 interchange, ALDOT has planned a primary detour route. This route is intended for use in both directions:

• Via US-31 and I-65 (Exit 252): Drivers will be rerouted onto US-31 (Montgomery Highway)
• Connecting through SR-119: Detour follows US-31 south into Shelby County to reach SR-119 (Cahaba Valley Road)
• Accessing I-65 (Exit 246): From SR-119, motorists can reconnect with I-65 to continue travel

Public involvement

ALDOT is currently seeking feedback from residents, commuters, and business owners. An online presentation is available on their website for those who wish to review the project maps and environmental considerations.

All public comments must be submitted by Friday, June 12.

To submit comments, use one of the following methods:

• Website comment form
• Email:  I459-Reconstruction@dot.state.al.us
• Phone: 205-581-5881 (limit 3 minutes)
• Mail:
  • Download comment form
  • Alabama Department of Transportation
    ATTN: Ms. Dannette Ratcliff
    P.O. Box 2745
    Birmingham, AL 35202-2745

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