Drivers passing through a busy stretch of Fairhope have a new traffic signal to get used to, installed this week at the intersection of State Route 104 and St. Michael Way.
The Baldwin County Commission, working with the Alabama Department of Transportation, announced the new signal as part of an ongoing effort to improve roadway safety and manage growing traffic near St. Michael Catholic School. Morning drop-off and afternoon dismissal at the school have historically caused significant backups at the intersection, and county officials say the project was designed specifically to address that congestion.
Flash Mode Until Tuesday
ALDOT installed the signal this week, and it will run in flash mode through Tuesday, July 21, giving drivers time to adjust before it switches to standard operation. During flash mode, a flashing red light means drivers must come to a complete stop and proceed only when it’s safe to do so, while a flashing yellow light means drivers should slow down and move through the intersection with caution.
Temporary Poles for Now
To get the signal operating before the new school year begins, crews installed temporary timber poles at the intersection. Permanent galvanized steel poles will go up later once fabrication is complete. Baldwin County has agreed to help fund the upgraded steel poles, which are intended to hold up better over time and withstand severe weather.
County officials are asking drivers to stay alert and use extra caution while they adjust to the new signal pattern in the coming weeks.