The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has launched a $2.6 million project to address ongoing slope stability issues along I-65 southbound at milepost 87.4, just south of the southbound Evergreen Rest Area. The project began in late August and will construct a soldier pile retaining wall to stabilize the shoulder and prevent further landslide activity in the area.
A soldier pile retaining wall is a common solution for highway construction projects where space is limited, and excavation is challenging.
The system involves placing vertical steel beams, known as soldier piles, at regular intervals and then installing horizontal lagging, typically made from wood, concrete, or steel, between the piles to retain the soil behind the wall.
“This solution allows us to address the recurring landslide problem while maintaining traffic flow,” said ALDOT spokesperson James Gordon. “By stabilizing the slope and ensuring the structural integrity of the shoulder, we are increasing the long-term sustainability of this section of I-65.” In addition to the soldier pile wall, the project scope includes additional slope reinforcement measures to add strength as well as new guardrail.
Landslide damage before repair work
Current repair work
To accommodate the slope work, ALDOT constructed a lane shift to ensure that two lanes remained open at all times on I-65 southbound. Scheduled for completion by January 2025, motorists should be cautious and anticipate minor delays as crews continue the construction until completion.
For real time traffic information visit www.algotraffic.com or download the ALGOTraffic app.
The project is primarily funded through federal interstate maintenance funds, with 90 percent of the funding provided by the federal government and 10 percent from state sources.
