Gordo bypass enters final work phase next week

TUSCALOOSA COUNTY, Ala. (WBRC) - Those in west Alabama will soon notice new road construction in Pickens County. It’s the last phase of the Gordo bypass which starts next week it’s a big deal considering there have delays since COVID and also weather delays.

For those living in west Alabama it comes down to the word, ‘finally.’ ALDOT leaders say final phase of the project begins Monday, Oct. 14, a project worth around $45 million.

What will actually take place starting next week is the base and pave portion of the 8-mile bypass, and that’s considered the easiest part of it all.

West Alabama ALDOT spokesman Alabama John McWilliams says the final phase will take about two years.

“That will take approximately two years and once that’s completed, we will have U.S. 82 completed from Mississippi to Tuscaloosa four-laned. This will be a great project because we’ll be able to move traffic more efficiently and this will also improve commerce as well," McWilliams said.

The work on the Gordo bypass started in 2017 with the original goal to wrap up in 2020, but again, ALDOT says COVID, weather, and getting the necessary materials were challenging.

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