ALDOT will run a short SR-161 detour May 10–13 as the new Intracoastal Waterway Bridge opens in phases.
A new Intracoastal Waterway Bridge in Baldwin County is coming online, and Alabama is already laying out the detour routes drivers will need during the transition.
Alabama Department of Transportation officials said the agency is preparing to open the bridge with a revised traffic pattern designed to improve trips to the state’s beach communities.. The plan centers on short-term changes for motorists traveling south on SR-161. known as Beach Express. as crews complete work tied to the north roundabout.
The core focus during the May 10–13 window is managing access while the final configuration is finished. For drivers heading toward Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan, ALDOT directs southbound traffic to SR-59 via SR-308, formerly Foley Beach Express, during the detour.
Misryoum note: these kinds of phased traffic changes often determine how smoothly an opening day goes. Even brief detours can have ripple effects for congestion, school and work commutes, and local business traffic.
According to ALDOT, the detour runs Sunday, May 10, 2026 at 7 a.m.. through Wednesday, May 13, 2026.. Local drivers are instructed to continue south on SR-161 until the point where the road is closed at CR-8. also known as Coastal Gateway Boulevard.. The department also plans to adjust signal timing along SR-59 to help limit backups during the detour period.
ALDOT said the bridge opening will take place in two phases.. On May 10. motorists will be able to travel from County Road 4. also known as Cotton Creek Drive. across the new bridge and onto Canal Road.. Then on May 13. the new SR-161 connector roadway will open. completing full access from Beach Express south across the Intracoastal Waterway bridge and onto Canal Road through a one-way. free-flow traffic pattern.
Misryoum note: the emphasis on a one-way, free-flow layout signals an effort to reduce conflict points that can slow traffic near major crossings. For drivers, the payoff is usually less stop-and-go, but only if the transition is communicated clearly.
Looking ahead, ALDOT expects the final traffic pattern to be fully in place by Memorial Day, with two southbound lanes across the new bridge and two northbound lanes across the former toll bridge. The updated design also includes roundabouts meant to keep vehicles moving with fewer delays.
Motorists are being urged to follow detour signage and message boards. watch for construction crews and equipment. and build extra time into trips during the temporary changes.. Misryoum note: as the route shifts in stages. planning ahead can be the simplest way to avoid the worst surprises during a busy tourist season.