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Why is the project being done?

There has been a significant amount of development that has occurred along Old Tuscaloosa Highway that has created a poor level of service along the McAshan corridor from Rock Mountain Lake Rd to Old Tuscaloosa Hwy.  Jefferson County was awarded a grant administered through the State, for improvements to be made to the interchange of McAshan Dr at I-59/20, which will include an interchange modification and lane additions from I-59/20 to Bay Drive (Phase 1).  To be constructed concurrently with Phase 1, the County plans to continue the widening of McAshan Drive to 5-lanes from Bay Drive to Old Tuscaloosa Highway (Phase 2).  

Where can I find information related to the I-59/20 McAshan Drive Interchange Modification project (Phase 1)?

All information related to the McAshan Drive Interchange Modification project (Phase 1) can be found at the following ALDOT website: https://www.dot.state.al.us/news/opmATRP20372022037.html All questions or comments pertaining to Phase 1 should be directed to ALDOT via methods available through the ALDOT website.

How much will it cost?

While the project has not been bid yet, the estimated cost for the construction of Phase 2 is approximately $4 million and will be funded by Jefferson County.

How long will it take?

The project is currently scheduled to bid in December 2023 with construction starting in early 2024.

Will McAshan Drive have to be closed for this construction?

No. Citizens can expect travel lane closures; however, McAshan Drive will remain open at all times and access to businesses and residences will be maintained.

Is Jefferson County acquiring property by eminent domain?

Jefferson County is required by law to follow a specific process in acquiring property for public projects. The first step is evaluating the right of way needs for the project and communicating with residents regarding those impacts. A federally established valuation process is followed, to determine the level of impact to each property owner as a result of the project. Additional design modifications may also result, as all efforts are made to reduce or eliminate impacts where possible while still supporting the roadway operation needs. While taking property by eminent domain is possible, it is the last step after all other efforts have been made.

Who came up with this plan?

Jefferson County evaluated the site and developed a preliminary layout for the McAshan Drive corridor. Jefferson County then retained engineering design consultants, AECOM, to evaluate the proposed alternative and complete the design.