Baldwin County 12 has reopened at its intersection with Alabama 59, ending a detour that lasted several months while crews worked to improve the area.

The Alabama Department of Transportation project began in February and aims to widen the highway and add turn lanes. It also includes culvert extensions and signal upgrades. The $1.83 million project, awarded to McElhenney Construction Company LLC, is expected to be completed in fall 2025.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich said work is still underway but that traffic is moving again.

"The County Road 12 intersection at 59, which was an ALDOT project, is open. They're not done," Hellmich said. "It takes a while for the mast arms and everything to come in, but they have temporary striping. The road is open."

Hellmich said a four-way stop sign will remain in place on Baldwin County 12 near the highway until work is complete.

"It works very well," Hellmich said. "The residents at The Cottages appreciate the slow down in traffic."

The project includes adding right-turn lanes on Alabama 59 North and South, and left- and right-turn lanes on Baldwin County 12.

More information is available online at www.dot.state.al.us.