The intersection of South Hickory Street and West Michigan Avenue has reopened following a county construction project to improve the site.
Parts of the intersection have been closed since September during construction to upgrade turn signals and add dedicated turn lanes in all four directions at the site on southwest Foley.
The project was under Baldwin County’s supervision and direction during the construction phase. West Michigan Avenue is designated Baldwin County 26 at the location.
The Foley City Council voted to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with the Baldwin County Commission for a joint project to improve the intersection. Under the agreement, the city paid for the survey and design plan creation. The county implemented the construction plans.
Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the reopening follows an extensive construction effort.
“The County Commission notified us the other day that they will finish and open the entire intersection at Hickory and Michigan,” Hellmich said. “It’s been a very complicated project. It’s very comprehensive.”
County Commissioner Billie Jo Underwood said the project will improve traffic flow at the site.
“Improving our roadway infrastructure is an important part of serving the residents of Baldwin County,” said Underwood. “This project will help improve safety and reduce congestion for the many people who travel through this intersection each day.”
Temporary traffic signals are operating at the site. Permanent signals will be installed as soon as the equipment is received.
“They still will have temporary signals up there that will handle all of the turn movements,” Hellmich said. “When the permanent mast arms come in, they will be installed.”
Hellmich said the mast arms are capable of withstanding hurricane-force winds. The county is awaiting delivery of the mounting system, but has installed temporary signals to reopen the intersection.
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