An intersection in southwest Foley has reopened after months of construction aimed at improving traffic flow and safety for drivers traveling through the busy corridor.

The intersection of South Hickory Street and West Michigan Avenue, also known as Baldwin County 26, is now open to traffic following a roadway improvement project led by the Baldwin County Commission in partnership with the City of Foley.

Portions of the intersection had been closed since September while crews upgraded turn signals and added dedicated turn lanes in all four directions. The work was designed to improve traffic operations at a location that serves a growing number of motorists traveling through the area each day.

The project was completed under the supervision and direction of Baldwin County during the construction phase. As part of the partnership, Foley City Council approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Baldwin County Commission for the joint project. Under that agreement, the city funded the survey and development of design plans while the county carried out construction.

Baldwin County Commissioner Billie Jo Underwood said the work reflects ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure across the county.

“Improving our roadway infrastructure is an important part of serving the residents of Baldwin County,” Underwood said. “This project will help improve safety and reduce congestion for the many people who travel through this intersection each day.”

Foley Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the intersection reopened after a lengthy and complex construction effort.

“The County Commission notified us the other day that they will finish and open the entire intersection at Hickory and Michigan,” Hellmich said. “It’s been a very complicated project. It’s very comprehensive.”

Temporary traffic signals are currently operating at the intersection to manage traffic and turning movements in all directions. County officials said the signals will remain in place until permanent mast-arm traffic signals arrive and can be installed.

“They still will have temporary signals up there that will handle all of the turn movements,” Hellmich said. “When the permanent mast arms come in, they will be installed.”

Hellmich said the permanent mast-arm system is designed to withstand hurricane-force winds. Baldwin County officials are awaiting delivery of the mounting equipment needed to complete the final installation.