Weather Delays Lane Closures For Tuscaloosa Arch Replacement

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Alabama Department of Transportation on Tuesday announced it has delayed lane closures until Wednesday this week following severe weather delays to allow the contractor to install the westbound arch on Interstate 20/59 at Exit 73 in Tuscaloosa.

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ALDOT says the McFarland Boulevard eastbound outside lane directly under the interstate will close Wednesday at 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. for the contractor to install a section of the arch. The closures were initially scheduled to begin Tuesday, but heavy storms moving through the area prompted the agency to push back the start date.

This comes after the previously defunct arch was removed the weekend of Jan. 16.

McFarland Boulevard, directly under the interstate, will be closed in both directions beginning Friday, Jan. 29 at 11 p.m. until Sunday, Jan. 31 at 5 p.m. for the contractor to complete the installation, while the I-20/59 westbound outside lane will close near Exit 73 on Friday, January 29 from 8 p.m. until Saturday, January 30 at 5 p.m.

Motorists can expect delays, the state agency said, and are encouraged to use Skyland Boulevard , Interstate 359 or other alternate routes.

ALDOT spokesperson John McWilliams previously said the arches are necessary, as they will hold the weight of the bridge over McFarland Boulevard and will allow the contractor to remove the underneath temporary support.

"This design will allow for more space on McFarland Boulevard where the single-point urban interchange (SPUI) will be constructed," he said in a press release. "The SPUI will improve travel time while also enhancing safety, as it allows motorists to simultaneously turn without crossing the path of opposing left-turning motorists and moves more vehicles through the intersection while reducing potential conflict points."

He then said the work is also part of the project to add lanes and bridge replacement from near Exit 73 to near Exit 77 that is intended to improve safety, mobility and commerce.

The expected completion date for the entire initiative is set for later this summer.

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