Located on the western edge of Jefferson County, the McCalla area has seen rapid growth and development in recent years. With a unique combination of residential and industrial growth, establishing connectivity and upgrading old and functionally obsolete infrastructure is critical to sustaining future growth in the area.
Traffic is expected to increase significantly as the area continues to develop. The Alabama Department of Transportation is proposing a project to safely accommodate this growth. In addition to increased traffic, the high concentration of truck traffic in the corridor creates a need to reduce the likelihood and severity of vehicle crashes.
The proposed project aims to enhance the interchange at I-59/20 at exit 104 (McAshan Drive) in McCalla. It also includes constructing a new overpass structure over I-59/20 adjacent to the existing bridge and implementing diverging diamond interchanges at the north and southbound ramps.
A diverging diamond interchange eliminates the need for left-turning vehicles to cross the paths of approaching through-vehicles. It moves high volumes of traffic through an intersection and gives easier access to an interstate.
The McCalla project starts at the intersection of Rock Mountain Lake Road and McAshan Drive, north of the I-59/20 interchange, and concludes at Bay Drive, just south of the northbound ramps. The project will span approximately one mile. The roadway will remain open to traffic during the project, although temporary lane closures might be necessary at times. The acquisition of right-of-way is in progress for this project.
Construction is anticipated to begin by the end of 2024 or early 2025. The completed project is expected to enhance traffic flow and safety while providing opportunities for economic development for surrounding businesses and the industrial park.
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