Birmingham Residents Notice Changes to Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard
By: Local Journalist
Birmingham, AL – Residents and commuters along Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard have likely experienced some noticeable traffic changes in recent weeks. As of Monday, September 23, a section of Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard, between the 1600 block and Highland Avenue, has been repaved and switched from a one-way street to two-way traffic.
Details of the Changes
This adjustment is part of a larger initiative through the city’s $12.9 million street resurfacing plan for 2024. The newly transformed section now encourages a different flow of traffic, as drivers can navigate both directions on this stretch of the road.
Despite this new two-way configuration, drivers should note that Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard will transition back into a northbound one-way street just after the Highland Avenue intersection. This one-way traffic pattern will continue until it reaches the intersection with Reverend Abraham Woods Jr. Boulevard, near the Jefferson County Courthouse.
Closure of Nearby Viaduct
It’s also worth mentioning that a section of Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard that passes over the Rainbow Viaduct has been closed to vehicular traffic since January 2022, which may have prompted the need for this recent update in traffic patterns. Officials are hoping that the new two-way configuration will better accommodate local drivers while improving accessibility.
Traffic Safety Enhancements
The city is also looking to improve safety with this switch. One of the key features of the redesign includes the addition of a four-way stop in this newly converted area. This change is designed to reduce speed and enhance safety for pedestrians crossing the street.
Birmingham’s Broader Traffic Plans
Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard isn’t the only road seeing changes in Birmingham as part of these traffic improvements. Earlier this year, the City of Birmingham secured over $14.5 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation to convert historic 4th Avenue from a one-way into a two-way road. These upgrades reflect the city’s ongoing commitment to modernizing its infrastructure and improving the driving experience for residents.
Community Feedback
The changes to Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard have sparked conversations among local residents. For those who have already driven on the new two-way section, city officials are keen to hear feedback. Residents are encouraged to share their thoughts about the changes, which can aid in future traffic planning and improvement efforts.
Overall, the new road modifications are part of a concerted effort by Birmingham officials to not only enhance accessibility and safety but also modernize traffic patterns in response to the community’s changing needs. As more changes roll out, the city hopes residents will enjoy the benefits of these upgrades.
