McCalla, Alabama, October 12, 2025
News Summary
The Alabama Department of Transportation has launched a $22 million Diverging Diamond Interchange project in McCalla, aimed at improving traffic flow and safety. This project will transform Exit 104 on Interstate 59/20 and is expected to significantly enhance access to local communities while reducing vehicle conflict points. Jefferson County is contributing $14 million, with the project set to be completed by fall 2026.
McCalla, Alabama
The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has announced the initiation of a substantial $22 million Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) project in McCalla, located south of Birmingham. This project aims to enhance traffic conditions and safety on the interstate by transforming Exit 104 on Interstate 59/20 at McAshan Drive, significantly improving access to the Rock Mountain Lakes community and Jefferson Metropolitan Park.
Research conducted by the Federal Highway Administration suggests that DDI designs can lead to a 75% reduction in costs, 50% fewer vehicle conflict points, and a 30% increase in traffic efficiency when compared to traditional intersections. The DDI design was first implemented in Springfield, Missouri, in 2009 and has gained popularity for its effectiveness in minimizing crashes while offering a cost-efficient solution for traffic management.
Jefferson County is contributing $14 million towards this project, while the remaining funds will be sourced from a combination of federal and state funding, including $2 million from the Rebuild Alabama Act and $6 million from the Federal Interstate Maintenance Fund.
Project Details
Once completed, the DDI at Exit 104 will allow traffic to shift from the right side to the left side and back again at each end of the bridge. This unique configuration enables all left turns without the need to cross oncoming traffic, a revolutionary improvement in traffic flow and safety. The project is set to commence construction immediately and is expected to last until the fall of 2026. Temporary lane closures and shifts will occur during this time, which may affect local traffic.
Economic Impact
The project area is critical from an economic standpoint, housing numerous industrial campuses, including the newly developed $1.1 billion JM Smucker Uncrustables plant. This economic activity highlights the need for improved transportation infrastructure to support both current and future growth in the region.
Future Plans
ALDOT has also announced plans for further enhancements in the area, including the introduction of additional interchanges at I-65 and Lakeshore Drive in Homewood, and a future Exit 9 on I-459 in Hoover. These expansions are part of a broader strategy to enhance traffic efficiency and safety across Jefferson County.
National Context
As of June 2024, there are approximately 150 installations of DDI designs nationwide, with Alabama’s first DDI being installed in Baldwin County in 2020. The growing number of installations across the country underscores the effectiveness and adaptability of the DDI design for modern traffic needs.
Summary of the DDI Project
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | $22 million |
| Location | McCalla, Alabama |
| Completion Date | Fall 2026 |
| County Funding | $14 million |
| Federal Funding | $8 million |
| Vehicle Conflict Reduction | 50% |
| Traffic Efficiency Increase | 30% |
FAQ
What is the cost of the Diverging Diamond Interchange project in McCalla?
$22 million
What will the DDI project improve?
The DDI project will enhance access to the Rock Mountain Lakes community and Jefferson Metropolitan Park, while also significantly improving traffic flow and safety.
What kind of funding is involved in the project?
Jefferson County will contribute $14 million towards the project, with remaining funds sourced from federal and state funds, including $2 million from the Rebuild Alabama Act and $6 million from the Federal Interstate Maintenance Fund.
When is the project expected to be completed?
The project is scheduled to last through the fall of 2026.
What unique feature does the DDI design include?
The DDI design allows traffic to transition from the right side to the left side and back again at each end of the bridge, enabling all left turns without crossing opposing traffic.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Birmingham Initiatives for Road Improvements and Recycling
Additional Resources
- AL.com: $22 Million Road Project Begins
- Wikipedia: Road Traffic Safety
- Bham Now: Jefferson County Road Projects
- Google Search: Jefferson County road projects
- Leader Paper: Highway 30 Improvement Project
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Transportation Infrastructure
- Denver Post: Red Rocks Transportation Pilot Project
- Google News: Public Transportation Grants 2025
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
