ALDOT: Intersection to Receive Safety Improvements

By Jackson Blaze Staff

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — An Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) project to construct safety modifications at U.S. 72 and Alabama 79 west of Scottsboro in Jackson County will begin this week, weather permitting.

The intersection will be converted to a restricted crossing U-turn (RCUT) intersection. An RCUT intersection restricts crossing and left turn movements from the minor street. In lieu of crossing or turning left from Alabama 79, motorists will make a right turn onto U.S. 72, followed at a safe distance by a U-turn, significantly reducing exposure to conflicts with other vehicles. Studies have show RCUT intersections effective in reducing injuries and fatal crashes compared to conventional intersections. Left turns from U.S. 72 to Alabama 79 will still be permitted.

Reed Contracting was awarded the $424,984 contract in October. Motorists are advised to reduce speed and expect single-lane closures in the area.