Drivers in Foley will soon face detours as Baldwin County begins a major road project on the southwest side of the city. Work is set to improve the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Hickory Street, a location that has long seen heavy traffic. Officials said the effort will bring new turn lanes and upgraded signals to the crossing. But it also means the intersection will be shut down for an extended stretch.

Construction is scheduled to start Monday, September 15, and the intersection will close at 8 a.m. that day. According to county officials, the first phase of work will keep the crossing closed until 5 p.m. on Friday, January 2, 2026. The project is designed to roll out in three phases, with final completion expected sometime in spring 2026.

The Baldwin County Commission approved the plan in August, awarding the construction bid to Rob Middleton Construction. The company submitted the lowest of nine offers, winning the $2.1 million contract. Commissioners said the improvements will focus on safety and traffic flow at the busy junction.

At the site, Michigan Avenue also carries the county designation of Baldwin County 26. The changes will include dedicated turn lanes in all four directions and a full upgrade of the traffic signals. Crews will work under county supervision throughout construction, ensuring the project follows engineering plans.

The effort is a joint venture between the City of Foley and Baldwin County. Under an intergovernmental agreement, the city covered the survey and design costs, which were prepared by Thompson Engineering. Baldwin County is taking the lead on construction and project management during the build-out.

City and county officials acknowledged the closure will be inconvenient for drivers but argued the long-term benefits outweigh the disruption. Once complete, the intersection is expected to handle traffic more safely and efficiently.

For now, motorists are being urged to plan alternate routes and expect delays until the new intersection takes shape in 2026.