A new bridge is being proposed spanning Mobile Bay in the US state of Alabama. The existing bridge carrying I-10 across Mobile Bay measures 10km in length and was built between 1978 and 1980 when it opened to traffic. However, it no longer meets the requirements and suffers congestion at peak periods, so a new link has been proposed instead. The aim of the project is to reduce congestion and also to boost safety. This new structure would also be 4.3m higher than the expected 100 year storm surge.
The work is being planned by the Alabama Department of Transportation. The project will include the construction of a new Interstate 10 Mobile River Bridge as well as the reconstruction of the Bayway route.
This latest bridge plan would be tolled but would not have the high tolls that resulted in a previous proposal being rejected. Drivers wanting to avoid paying tolls would still be able to use the existing Wallace Tunnel. If the project gets the necessary approvals, construction should take around five years.
A portion of the necessary financing will be supplied by Alabama State funds, with a Federal grant and a Federal loan also paying towards the works.
