Yellowhammer Times

The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) is set to temporarily close the I-65 northbound exit 168 off-ramp at South Boulevard. This decision comes after ALDOT observed increased traffic delays and queues since the project began in early September. The closure aims to enhance safety for both the public and construction workers while speeding up the project's progress.

ALDOT plans to implement this full closure by the end of October, although the exact date has not yet been announced. During this period, a detour will direct drivers to exit I-65 northbound at exit 167 onto US-80 westbound, then onto US-31 northbound, continuing onto South Boulevard.

"The northbound off-ramp will be closed to all traffic with a signed detour in place," an ALDOT representative said. The department anticipates reopening the ramp by Thanksgiving.

To accommodate traffic during this closure, ALDOT has converted the southbound off-ramp to full capacity. On October 16, crews removed a barrier wall that had previously restricted two lanes on this ramp. All lanes on the southbound off-ramp will remain open throughout the northbound closure.

Once work on the northbound ramp concludes, ALDOT will assess when to similarly close the southbound ramp. Factors such as colder weather and seasonal limitations will influence this decision.

For updates on traffic conditions, ALDOT encourages motorists to use their mobile app or visit ALGOTraffic online.

Information from this article can be found here.