Starting this week, construction on the Highway 59 Expansion Project in Gulf Shores is set to commence with the building of permanent medians south of the bridge. This significant development brings about several changes that motorists need to be aware of. According to a release from the city, the new phase of work means that traffic barrels at East 16th Avenue will no longer be movable in the morning to accommodate school traffic. As of Monday morning, left-hand turns at East 16th Avenue have been permanently eliminated.

Travel Routes for Southbound Commuters

For those traveling southbound to Gulf Shores schools, the city has provided three available routes. Firstly, there is East 20th Avenue. This route offers an alternative for those looking to avoid the construction area. Secondly, East 15th Avenue provides another option. It allows commuters to reach their destinations without being directly affected by the construction. Additionally, Highway 180 (Fort Morgan Road) is also a viable choice. The city emphasizes the importance of planning to use one of these routes starting from Monday morning, December 16.

East 20th Avenue

East 20th Avenue presents a relatively straightforward route for southbound commuters. It provides a clear path that bypasses the construction zone. This allows for a more seamless journey, especially for those who are accustomed to using this route. The road is well-maintained and offers good visibility, making it a reliable option during the construction period. Commuters can expect a relatively smooth drive along East 20th Avenue, minimizing any delays or disruptions caused by the construction work.

East 15th Avenue

East 15th Avenue is another route that remains accessible for southbound travelers. It offers a different perspective and may be preferred by some commuters based on their usual travel patterns. This route also has its own set of advantages, such as being relatively less congested compared to other routes during certain times of the day. It provides an alternative for those who want to avoid the potential traffic congestion on other routes. The road conditions along East 15th Avenue are generally good, ensuring a comfortable journey for commuters.

Highway 180 (Fort Morgan Road)

Highway 180, also known as Fort Morgan Road, serves as an important alternative route for southbound commuters. It offers a wider road surface and better capacity to handle the increased traffic during the construction period. This route provides a direct connection to Gulf Shores and allows commuters to reach their destinations without having to navigate through the construction area. It is a well-known and frequently used route, making it a convenient option for many.The work to add a third southbound lane to Alabama 59 from Coastal Gateway Boulevard south to Fort Morgan Road began earlier this year in Gulf Shores. The second phase, from Coastal Gateway Boulevard to Parkway South, is expected to be completed by the end of summer next year. Along with the third phase, which runs from Target to County Road 6, these improvements are part of a $14.4-million Better Utilizing Investment to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant awarded by the Federal Highway Administration in November 2019. Mayor Robert Craft of Gulf Shores previously stated that managing growth is the biggest challenge they face, and these transportation improvements, although not easy during the construction process, are necessary.For more information about this project or to ask any questions, residents are advised to contact the Engineering Department at 251-968-1166. The construction crew is working diligently to ensure the smooth progress of the project and minimize any inconvenience to the public. Motorists are urged to follow the posted signs and instructions to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.