Motorists traveling to Alabama’s beach communities should plan ahead as the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) prepares for a temporary traffic shift on SR-161 (Beach Express).
Beginning Sunday, May 10 at 7 a.m., southbound Beach Express traffic will be detoured while crews complete final work on the new Intracoastal Waterway Bridge traffic pattern. The detour is scheduled to remain in place through Wednesday, May 13.
Detour Details
Drivers heading south toward Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan will be routed to SR-59 via SR-308 (formerly Foley Beach Express).
Local traffic allowed to continue south on SR-161 to the closure point at CR-8 (Coastal Gateway Boulevard).
Motorists should expect increased traffic on SR-59 during this time. ALDOT will adjust and monitor signal timings along the route to help keep vehicles moving as efficiently as possible.
Detour from SR 161 (Beach Express) to SR 59 in effect May 10 – May 13
Why This Matters
This short-term detour allows crews to complete key work needed to open a new traffic pattern designed to improve traffic flow and safety along one of the primary routes to Alabama’s beaches—just ahead of peak summer travel.
What to Expect Next
The new Intracoastal Waterway Bridge will open in phases:
- May 10: Drivers will be able to travel from County Road 4 (Cotton Creek Drive) south across the new bridge to Canal Road
- May 13: The SR-161 connector roadway will open, providing full access from the Beach Express to Canal Road using a one-way, free-flow traffic pattern
Once construction is complete, the final traffic configuration will include:
- Two southbound lanes on the new Intracoastal Waterway Bridge
- Two northbound lanes on the former toll bridge
- Roundabouts designed to keep traffic moving with fewer delays
ALDOT appreciates the public’s patience as this project nears completion and improves travel to and from Alabama’s Gulf Coast.
