From The Trussville Tribune staff reports
BIRMINGHAM – The Alabama Department of Transportation announced today, April 9, that Interstate-59/20 Southbound at Interstate-65 will remain closed through at least Wednesday, April 11. The roadway had previously expected to open yesterday (Saturday).
“We will make an announcement on Tuesday or earlier if opportunity allows,” ALDOT announced in a statement on Sunday.
“The Alabama Department of Transportation apologizes to the commuters and drivers in Birmingham,” ALDOT spokesperson Linda Crockett said. “We are very disappointed in the performance of our contractor on this job and we are currently fining them an average of $500,000 per day during this closure.”
Crockett said safety is motorist is the primary concern.
“While we are disappointed, we must focus on safety and we must require the continued closure of the roadway until we can be confident that drivers are not in danger. Safety is our paramount concern.”
To area drivers:
ALDOT asked motorists to avoid the I59/I65 interchange if possible. Use alternate routes for your commute.
If you must travel in this area expect significant delays in all directions. If you must travel I-59 Southbound from the Red Mountain expressway, you will be required to exit on to I-65 N then again exit at 16th street where you will cross over to I-65 Southbound and drive back south to the I-59 exit and merge back on to 59 S towards Tuscaloosa. There will also be a detour at the 18th street on ramp to I-59 Southbound. This ramp will remain will closed until this section of highway is complete.
Motorists are requested to consider using alternate routes, adjust arrival/departure times, observe work zone speed limits and other work zone signs, and use extreme caution in this area.