Baldwin County Commission approved an agreement with the Alabama Department of Transportation to install a new traffic signal at the intersection of State Route 104 and St. Michael Way, a project aimed at improving safety near the rapidly growing St. Michael Catholic High School campus in Fairhope.

The signal is expected to be operational by the start of the 2026-27 school year, with construction planned during the summer school break to minimize disruptions, a news release said.

Under the agreement, ALDOT will design, install and fund most of the project. Baldwin County will contribute $85,000 to upgrade the signal poles to galvanized steel for increased durability and storm resilience.

County and school officials said the project comes in response to rising traffic volumes and growing safety concerns along the corridor as the school continues expanding its enrollment, facilities and community programs.

St. Michael Catholic High School currently serves 348 students from across Baldwin County. The school opened an on-campus stadium in fall 2024 and is continuing a capital campaign to expand additional athletic facilities.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Baldwin County Commission and the Alabama Department of Transportation for prioritizing the safety of our students and families,” said Andrea Williamson, principal of St. Michael Catholic High School. “This traffic signal is a meaningful investment in our community and truly an answer to prayers. It will make a lasting difference for the students, families and visitors who travel to our campus each day.”

Michael Druhan, president of the St. Michael Advisory Council, represented the school during the commission meeting and thanked Chairman Charles Ball, Vice Chairman Matt McKenzie, Commissioner Billie Jo Underwood and other county leaders for supporting the project.

“The timing of this project — and having this traffic signal in place by the fall — cannot be overstated,” Druhan said. “As our campus continues to develop, this traffic signal is a vital piece of infrastructure that ensures the safety of our students, families and visitors.”

School leaders said the signal will improve both traffic flow and safety for local residents as well as the thousands of visitors who attend events on campus each year.

“As a school community, we pray daily for the safety of our students,” Williamson said. “Because of the leadership and support shown by the Baldwin County Commission, parents can rest easier knowing their children will have a safer route to and from school.”