GULF SHORES — Gulf Shores officials say the Alabama Highway 59 widening project poses a public safety concern.
Gulf Shores Fire Rescue Chief Mark Sealy told 1819 News that the barriers south of the W.C. Holmes Memorial Bridge down to Fort Morgan Road sometimes have slow response times due to drivers being unable to move over.
"It's not too bad when there isn't a lot of traffic, but during busy weekends or events, there are times it can create a problem," Sealy said.
Drivers cannot pull over due to cones, curbs and ongoing construction.
Sealy said his concern is a significant incident near the beach that may require a multiple-unit response and ambulance services. He said the longer the Highway 59 project takes, the more chances there will be a major issue.
"That certainly concerns me because our firefighters are in danger if we don't have everybody there," he continued. "You know, the sky's not falling, but it's something that is frustrating, especially when you don't see a lot of progress, and we know we're going to have to deal with this for that much longer," Sealy said.
First responders do not have many alternate routes, so Sealy asks drivers to watch for emergency vehicles and pull over as much as possible.
Sealy said he worries most about busy weekends when thousands are expected to be in town, like the Shrimp Festival this weekend in Gulf Shores. However, he said the Gulf Shores Police Department keeps emergency lanes open near the festival area.
The estimated $20 million highway project is being funded by $6.465 million in federal BUILD grant funds, $2 million from state ATRIP funds and the city of Gulf Shores will pay the remaining $11.5 million.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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