On Friday, Oct. 2, officials gathered at Cooper Riverside Park in Mobile, Ala., to break ground on the Mobile River Bridge and Bayway Project – the largest transportation undertaking in Alabama’s history. The $3.2 billion Phase 1 effort, funded through a partnership of state, federal and local agencies, will deliver a new six‑lane cable‑stayed bridge and a widened Bayway, easing chronic congestion on Interstate 10.
Project Overview and Timeline
The bridge, designed to span the Mobile River, is slated for completion in roughly five years. ALDOT’s two‑phase plan spreads costs over time while delivering immediate traffic improvements. Phase 1 includes the construction of the cable‑stayed bridge, restriping the existing Bayway to provide six lanes, and a series of upgrades to major interchanges, intersections and traffic flow throughout Mobile and Baldwin counties.
Phase 2 will add a new Bayway structure as additional funding becomes available, with future toll revenue earmarked to help finance the expansion.
Toll Structure and Funding
To support long‑term maintenance, tolls have been proposed for bridge users. ALDOT outlines three payment options: a $60 unlimited monthly commuter pass (about $1.36 per trip for daily commuters), a $3 per‑trip rate with an ALGO Pass, and a $7.70 per‑trip charge using a compatible interoperable transponder. Drivers without a transponder will be billed via pay‑by‑plate. ALGO transponders will be distributed free of charge during the initial rollout, ensuring affordable access for local commuters.
Federal Support and Administration Backing
The groundbreaking highlighted extensive coordination among ALDOT, the White House, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration, Governor Kay Ivey, Alabama’s congressional delegation and local officials. Recent actions by the Trump administration have increased flexibility in the use of federal funding, addressed regulatory requirements and supported financing mechanisms needed to move construction forward.
President Trump’s emphasis on rebuilding America’s infrastructure is evident in this project, which not only creates jobs but also strengthens a critical transportation corridor for commerce and families across the Gulf Coast.
Local Impact
Mobile residents can look forward to reduced travel times, safer commutes and enhanced connectivity between Mobile and Baldwin counties. The bridge’s modern design and expanded Bayway will accommodate growing traffic volumes, supporting local businesses and tourism while preserving the region’s historic charm.
Community leaders anticipate that the project will spur additional economic development, attracting new investment and reinforcing Alabama’s reputation as a hub for industry and trade.
Next Steps
Construction crews will begin site preparation this month, with major bridge components expected to arrive in early 2027. ALDOT will continue to provide regular updates on progress, toll implementation and any temporary traffic adjustments required during construction.
As the project moves forward, officials encourage residents to stay informed and take advantage of the upcoming commuter‑pass options, ensuring a smooth transition to the new infrastructure once completed.
Original reporting: Alabama News Network — read the source article.
