ALDOT continues to make steady progress on the new Intracoastal Waterway Bridge in Gulf Shores, a $52 million project designed to ease traffic congestion and improve safety in the area. Alongside the bridge, a $30 million connector project to tie into SR-161, formerly designated as the Foley Beach Express, is also underway. Both projects are scheduled to be completed by summer 2026.
ALDOT has made significant progress toward completion of the new Waterway SR-161 bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway.
When finished, this bridge and the existing Beach Express Bridge will provide two lanes in each direction, doubling the capacity for Beach Express users. These efforts, combined with a nearby City of Gulf Shores project on Hwy 59, will increase the number of lanes for drivers crossing the Intracoastal Waterway from seven to ten upon completion of construction.
The new toll-free bridge will aim to provide even more relief from congestion on busy Highway 59. It will also improve access to emergency services, and enhance safety during evacuations, particularly in hurricanes or other emergencies.
Construction Milestones:
- Site clearing: Complete.
- Roadway work: Nearing completion north of the canal; south of the canal is approximately 50% finished.
- Paving: They have completed about 75% of the work north of the canal. They will begin work south of the canal after finishing the roadway.
- Pile driving for the bridge substructure: Approximately 75% complete.
- Bridge superstructure: Installation of concrete girders is underway north of the canal.
Upcoming Activities:
- Bridge substructure: Completion is expected soon.
- Superstructure work: This will continue with the installation of girders, forming and pouring bridge decks, and constructing the barrier rail.
- Traffic shift on SR-180: They will reroute traffic to newly constructed lanes and a roundabout.
SR-161 Connector:
- Right-of-way clearance: They have cleared the area from CR-4 to the first of two bridge sites, and utility work and roadway construction are ongoing.
