The Alabama Department of Transportation has announced a bridge replacement project on Highway 243 at Cedar Creek south of Russellville. For the next year the highway will accommodate only local traffic, with through traffic detoured around US 43 and Highway 13 between Russellville and Haleyville.
The closure of 243 at Cedar Creek southeast of Russellville will begin Monday, July 7th. ALDOT advises drivers to plan alternate routes in advance and prepare for longer travel times.
The declining condition of the bridge constructed in 1965 led ALDOT to plan its replacement, a $2.8 million project.
Near Cedar Creek, SR-243 carries about 3,000 vehicles per day.
Official detour
Commercial traffic must use the official detour that will be posted. A subcontractor will install detour and other project signs next week.
The detour is US-43 from Russellville to SR-13 at Spruce Pine to SR-195 in Haleyville for southbound traffic, and vice versa for northbound traffic.
The official detour for commercial traffic.
Drivers of passenger vehicles may use other routes suited to their individual needs.
ALDOT cautions truck drivers about weight-restricted bridges on county roads in the immediate area of the closure. Heavy traffic on the local roads is punishable by fine.
Courtesy Alabama Department of Transportation