Major I-59 Southbound Closure Near Georgia State Line Begins Monday, November 16
Five-mile stretch near Hammondville to close for approximately one year; Exit 231 southbound ramps also affected
DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — Motorists traveling south on Interstate 59 from Dade County into Alabama should prepare for a major traffic change beginning Monday, November 16, as the Alabama Department of Transportation begins a long-term closure near Hammondville.
According to ALDOT, approximately five miles of I-59 southbound will close for about one year while crews demolish and reconstruct the aging roadway.
The closure will extend from north of milepost 235 to south of milepost 230, near Exit 231 at Hammondville.
Southbound Traffic to Shift Onto Northbound Interstate
Beginning Monday, November 16, contractor Wiregrass Construction plans to shift southbound traffic onto the inside lane of the recently reconstructed northbound roadway.
The northbound side of I-59 will temporarily carry traffic in both directions, separated by concrete barriers.
Motorists should expect reduced speeds, changing traffic patterns and possible delays while traveling through the construction zone.
Exit 231 Southbound Ramps to Close
The project will also require the closure of the southbound entrance and exit ramps at Exit 231, connecting I-59 with Alabama Highways 40 and 117 in Hammondville.
Drivers needing access to the Hammondville area will be directed to use U.S. Highway 11 as an alternate route.
The northbound roadway will continue carrying traffic through the area under the temporary two-way configuration.
Part of $47.5 Million Interstate Reconstruction Project
The closure is part of a larger $47.5 million reconstruction and rehabilitation project covering approximately 16 miles of I-59 southbound between the Georgia state line and Fort Payne.
The overall project began in May 2026 and is expected to be completed during the winter or spring of 2029.
Work began near the Georgia state line and Alabama Welcome Center, where crews have been reconstructing sections of the southbound roadway.
ALDOT says the current phase near Hammondville will require the complete removal and replacement of approximately five miles of interstate pavement.
Important Information for Georgia and Alabama Drivers
The construction will directly affect motorists traveling from Trenton and Dade County toward Hammondville, Fort Payne and other Northeast Alabama destinations.
Drivers should be especially cautious when entering the work zone, where southbound traffic will be traveling alongside northbound vehicles on the same side of the interstate.
Motorists are encouraged to allow additional travel time, watch for construction signs and follow posted detours.
The southbound traffic shift is scheduled to begin Monday, November 16, 2026, with the five-mile closure expected to remain in place for approximately one year.
For current traffic conditions, motorists can visit ALGOTraffic.com or use the ALGO Traffic mobile app.