If you’re like most drivers in Birmingham, you’ve been dreading the closure of Interstate 59/20 in downtown Birmingham. Whether you drive on this part of the interstate or not, we all expected it to have a big impact. How could it not, when it’s such a big interstate and in such a high-traffic part of town? Don’t worry, though. We’ve got you covered with all the details so you can plan around any inconvenience.
Where and When
The actual stretch of 20/59 that’s being shut down isn’t very long. It’s just a very important connector. The bridges that are being re-built have been in service for more than 60 years. They were originally designed for a 30-year lifespan and roughly half of the traffic that now passes over them every day. The upgrade was overdue.
The part of 59/20 that will be closed is between Interstate 65 and Red Mountain Expressway (Highway 31/280). ALDOT expects the closure to last about 14 months. The project should be completed by the end of 2020.
Alternate Routes
For through traffic passing through the Birmingham area, ALDOT recommends using 459 to bypass the construction area.
However, if you live in town or need to get somewhere in downtown Birmingham, you do have options.
If you are traveling westbound, you’ll want to detour at 25th Street or Carraway Boulevard and continue on Carraway/U.S. 31 North to Finley Boulevard. You’ll be able to either get onto I-65 at Finley Exit 252 or back onto I-59/20 at Arkadelphia Road Exit 123.
If you’re traveling eastbound, you’ll detour to Arkadelphia Road Exit 123 or I-65 North to Finley Boulevard to Carraway Boulevard.
Updates from ALDOT
If you want to stay up to date with the latest information on the project, you have a few options. You can visit ALDOT’s site specifically for this project at 5920bridge.com. You can also text “5920BRIDGE” to 888777 to sign up for text alerts.
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Limbaugh Toyota
Even though our dealership is along 59/20, you have plenty of options to get to us at 2200 Ave T, Birmingham, AL 35218. Read more about routes here. Take a look at our huge inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles online. Then come on in and let us answer any questions, fill you in on our specials, and get you set up for a test drive. We can’t wait to help you get behind the wheel of a new vehicle!
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