Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Progress is visible on the Intracoastal Waterway’s newest bridge as the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) continues its work. This week, contractors reached a major milestone by setting the final steel girders in place. The visual change is drawing attention from locals and travelers. ALDOT officials say it marks a significant step toward completing the $52 million bridge project.

Work began months ago, and as of August 2025, the bridge substructure and steel girders are now fully installed. Crews will now focus on forming and pouring the bridge deck along with building the barrier rails. Roadwork for the approaches is also moving quickly, with about 90% of that portion already complete. If everything goes according to plan, the new bridge should open by summer 2026. 

The simultaneous construction of the $30 million SR-161 connector project is also scheduled to finish around the same time. This is the SR-161 connector and the planned widening of SR-180 (Canal Road) from Beaver Creek to the Beach Express Bridge. 

When it opens, the new bridge will double the Beach Express capacity, adding two lanes in each direction and raising the total from seven to ten lanes. This expanded crossing is expected to reduce congestion on Highway 59, making it easier for regular commuters and vacationers. The changes will help emergency vehicles reach the island quicker and improve evacuation routes when hurricanes threaten the Gulf Coast.

ALDOT spokesperson James Gordon described the latest achievement as a moment where progress can really be seen and felt. Photos from the site show the large steel girders now stretching across the waterway, offering a preview of the future bridge’s structure.

For more details and ongoing updates about the Intracoastal Waterway Bridge, official information can be found at ALDOT’s news website as the teams work toward their scheduled opening next year.