ALDOT Announces Lane Closures This Week For Arch Replacement

Tuscaloosa AL

08 February, 2021

1:32 PM

Description

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) on Monday announced lane closures this week for crews to install the eastbound arch on Interstate 20/59 at Exit 73 in Tuscaloosa. Click here to subscribe to our daily email newsletters and breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox and mobile devices for free. You can also support local journalism by donating as little as $5 a month to become a supporting member or by downloading our free Patch mobile app. Here's a schedule of the closures: The McFarland Boulevard eastbound outside lane directly under the interstate will close Tuesday, Feb. 9 at 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. for the contractor to install a section of the arch. The McFarland Boulevard westbound outside lane directly under the interstate will close Wednesday, Feb. 10 at 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. for the contractor to install another section of the arch.McFarland Boulevard, directly under the interstate, will be closed in both directions beginning Friday, Feb. 12 at 11 p.m. until Sunday, Feb. 14 at 5 p.m. for the contractor to complete the installation.The I-20/59 eastbound outside lane will close near Exit 73 on Friday, Feb. 12 from 8 p.m. until Saturday, Feb. 13 at 5 p.m. ALDOT West Region Public Information Officer John McWilliams said in a press release that the arches are necessary, as they will hold the weight of the bridge over McFarland Boulevard and will allow the contractor to remove the underneath temporary support. "This design will allow for more space on McFarland Boulevard where the single-point urban interchange (SPUI) will be constructed," he said. "The SPUI will improve travel time while also enhancing safety, as it allows motorists to simultaneously turn without crossing the path of opposing left-turning motorists and moves more vehicles through the intersection while reducing potential conflict points." McWilliams also pointed out the work is part of the project to add lanes and replace bridges from near Exit 73 to near Exit 77 that is intended to improve safety, mobility and commerce. The expected completion date is late summer 2021. ALDOT cautions motorists to expect delays, encouraging those traveling the route to use Skyland Boulevard, Interstate 359 or other alternatives. Follow Patch here for updates or on Facebook and Twitter.