Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Construction on the new Intracoastal Waterway Bridge in Baldwin County is moving forward as the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) reaches another milestone. Progress on the project has been steady, and officials say drivers will soon notice a significant change. Two lanes of traffic will open soon, but with a one-way flow. The updated pattern aims to make travel more efficient as the project enters its next phase.

ALDOT officials said the two-lane, one-way traffic setup is expected to open on or before Memorial Day, Monday, May 25th. The bridge serves as a major route for both local travelers and visitors heading toward Alabama’s coastal communities. To help motorists prepare for the change, ALDOT has released a short video showing how to navigate the new configuration safely and easily (see below).

Construction will remain active in some sections of the new traffic pattern even after the lanes open. Drivers should anticipate workers and equipment in certain areas as final touches are made. ALDOT said there will be clear signage and traffic control measures to guide motorists through the transition.

“The new bridge and traffic pattern are designed to reduce congestion, improve emergency access, and boost evacuation capacity during hurricanes,” ALDOT officials said. Once the full project is completed, the Intracoastal Waterway Bridge, the SR-161 connector highway, and the improved road network will also support economic growth in the region.