advancing construction of a new bridge over Big Creek on U.S. 82 in Coker as crews shift from major structural work to deck construction and finishing operations.
The project replaces two existing Big Creek bridges near Sam Sutton Road with a single, wider span designed to improve safety and increase capacity, according to ALDOT. Construction began May 12, 2025, and is expected to be completed by early 2027, weather permitting.
Ikaros was awarded the $9.9 million contract, which includes removal of the existing bridges, construction of new substructures, girder installation and completion of the bridge deck and approaches, according to ALDOT.
A major phase of the project was completed in spring 2026 with the placement of bridge girders that form the primary load-carrying system of the structure. Crews installed girders in stages to maintain traffic flow on U.S. 82, according to ALDOT.
Westbound girders were set in fall 2025, followed by placement of six girders for the eastbound side in March 2026. Each girder was lifted into place using cranes staged near the creek channel and aligned to transfer loads to newly constructed piers and abutments, according to ALDOT.
Rolling lane closures were implemented during girder placement, with eastbound traffic stopped for up to 20 minutes per lift. ALDOT limited closures to between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to reduce traffic impacts and used law enforcement to assist with traffic control.
The final set of girders was installed in mid-April 2026, completing the bridge's structural framework. According to ALDOT, this milestone allows crews to proceed with deck forming and concrete placement followed by paving and guardrail installation.
Once completed, the new bridge will provide wider lanes, improved load capacity and a more efficient crossing for passenger and commercial vehicles traveling through western Tuscaloosa County, according to ALDOT. Replacing two structures with a single modern bridge also is expected to reduce long-term maintenance needs and improve overall corridor reliability.
For more information, visit aldot.gov.
