The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) is preparing to open the new Intracoastal Waterway Bridge with a redesigned traffic pattern aimed at improving travel to the state’s coastal communities ahead of the busy summer season.

As crews complete final construction on two southbound lanes at the north roundabout, drivers heading south on State Route 161, known as the Beach Express, will encounter a temporary detour beginning Sunday, May 10, a news release from ALDOT said.

The detour will start at 7 a.m. May 10 and remain in place through Wednesday, May 13. During that time, island-bound traffic will be redirected from SR-161 to SR-308, formerly the Foley Beach Express, and then to SR-59 to reach Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan. Local traffic will still be allowed to travel south on SR-161 until the closure at County Road 8, also known as Coastal Gateway Boulevard.

“While short-term detours can be inconvenient, this is an important step toward opening a traffic pattern,” said ALDOT’s James Gordon in the release. “The goal is a smoother trip and improved safety.”

To reduce congestion during the detour, ALDOT will adjust and actively manage signal timings along SR-59 to keep vehicles moving as efficiently as possible.

The bridge opening will occur in two phases. In Phase 1, beginning May 10, motorists can travel from County Road 4, or Cotton Creek Drive, south across the new bridge and onto Canal Road. Phase 2 is scheduled for Wednesday, May 13, when the new SR-161 connector roadway opens. That phase will provide full access from the Beach Express across the bridge to Canal Road using a one-way, free-flow traffic pattern.

The completed traffic configuration, expected by Memorial Day, will feature two southbound lanes on the new Intracoastal Waterway Bridge and two northbound lanes on the former toll bridge. Roundabouts at key intersections are designed to reduce delays and improve traffic flow.

The project is part of broader efforts to address heavy seasonal traffic in Baldwin County, where beach travel surges during spring and summer months.

Motorists traveling through the area are urged to follow posted detour signs and message boards, watch for new traffic signals at the County Road 4 intersection with southbound SR-161, remain alert for workers and equipment and allow extra travel time while construction continues.