The closure of a bridge over the Tennessee River in Jackson County, Ala., for repairs that start June 18 will create some lengthy detours for residents who need to cross the river on Alabama 117.
Alabama Department of Transportation officials said the closure June 18-22 will mean motorists who usually get where they're going by traveling the Snodgrass Bridge between Stevenson and Flat Rock, will have to take the scenic route for a few days.
East of the Tennessee River, northbound traffic on Alabama 117 will be detoured onto Alabama 71 southbound at Flat Rock. From there, drivers will continue to Alabama 35 northbound at Section, then to U.S. Highway 72 eastbound at Scottsboro. Finally, drivers get back on track going onto Alabama 117 northbound at Stevenson.
West of the Tennessee River, southbound traffic on Alabama 117 will be rerouted to U.S. 72 westbound at Stevenson to Alabama 35 southbound at Scottsboro, and then to Alabama 71 northbound at Section to Alabama 117 southbound at Flat Rock.
ALDOT officials say the detours could take some time, depending on a motorist's destination, so plan travel time accordingly.
Alabama 117 will remain open to local traffic except for the immediate area of the bridge.