Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – The City of Gulf Shores is actively monitoring and adjusting traffic patterns in the Gulf Pines neighborhood to ensure resident safety during the construction of a new pedestrian bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway. Recent traffic analyses indicate a 35% decrease in vehicles on East Canal Drive between 3rd and 4th Streets, with current daily traffic at approximately 8,800 vehicles. The average speed recorded in this area is 35 mph, below the posted limit of 45 mph. Additionally, about 60% of drivers are using the detour to East 22nd Avenue, while 40% opt for East 24th Street. Traffic counts on East 10th Street show typical neighborhood volumes, with a 97% compliance rate to speed limits.

To address safety concerns, the city has implemented several measures:

1. Enhanced Police Presence: Since March 10, a dedicated traffic officer has been assigned to the area.
   
   
2. Signal Adjustments at East 2nd Street & East 22nd Avenue: Completed on March 25, these adjustments synchronize the northbound right green arrow with both northbound and westbound traffic, replacing the right arrow signal with a solid red circle and improving detection for the northbound right turn lane.
   
   
3. Safety Modifications at East Canal Drive & East 3rd Street: Completed on March 27, changes include relocating the stop sign to accommodate larger vehicles and installing a stop bar on westbound Canal Drive.
   
   
4. Directional Signage for East 3rd Street Detour: As of March 28, additional signs clarify the detour route.
   
   
5. Traffic Control Measures at East 2nd Street & East 24th Avenue: Implemented measures include the installation of water barricades, repainting stop bars, and adding rumble strips to enhance intersection safety.
   
   
6. Local Traffic Only Signs: New signage has been placed on East 22nd Avenue, East 23rd Avenue, and East 24th Avenue just east of 3rd Street.
   
   
7. Wayfinding Signage: Designed to direct traffic to local businesses within Waterway Village and away from neighborhood streets.
   
   
8. Parking Adjustments on West 22nd Avenue: Set for completion the week of April 1, parking removals aim to improve traffic flow and enhance safety for pedestrians and drivers.
   
   
9. Traffic Counters: Several traffic counters have been installed to monitor vehicle flow in critical locations, with installations completed between March 13 and March 27.
   
   
10. Traffic Calming Study: The city has contracted with Jacobs Engineering, effective April 3, to assess traffic patterns on the detour route and surrounding neighborhoods, recommending additional traffic calming measures where necessary.
    
    

Residents with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the Public Works Department at 251-968-1962. These efforts reflect Gulf Shores' commitment to creating a safer and more accessible community during the ongoing pedestrian bridge construction.