I-20 Arch Removal Set for Next Weekend, McFarland Blvd to Close

The arch that currently sits above Interstate 20/59 at Exit 73 is set to be removed next weekend. This will cause major closures on McFarland Boulevard, impacting both directions of traffic.

According to a press release from the Alabama Department of Transportation, the arch, which was a contracted project, did not meet certain construction specifications outlined by ALDOT. It is not dangerous to motorists in any way but in order to stay, it must be built under ALDOT's guidelines. A new arch is set to be built later this year.

McFarland Boulevard, where it intersects the interstate near Skyland Boulevard, will be closed in both directions starting on Friday, Jan. 15 at 11 p.m. and will stay closed until Sunday, Jan. 17 at 5 p.m. This is subject to change if weather conditions prohibit the arch's safe removal.

The press release indicated that I-20/59's eastbound right lane will also close in that area on Saturday, Jan. 16 from 2 a.m. until 5 p.m. Local law enforcement officers will be on the scene to maintain traffic flow during these delays.

"The arches are necessary, as they will hold the weight of the bridge over McFarland Boulevard and will allow the contractor to remove the underneath temporary support," the press release states. "This design will allow for more space on McFarland Boulevard where the single-point urban interchange (SPUI) will be constructed."

Travel times are guaranteed to be significantly improved with the implementation of the SPUI, and better safety measures in this area will be available due to the arches' functions.

ALDOT is encouraging travelers to instead use Skyland Boulevard to navigate through town and to the interstate. More information on these delays will be published as it becomes available. To read the press release in its entirety, see the tweet from ALDOT's West Central Region below.