The Beach Express has been gateway to the island since it's grand opening in June 2000. Locals have experienced rate inflation over the years, culminating in the recent $5 that is currently charged. All of that is anticipated to change this week.

As of noon on Thursday, May 23, drivers crossing the Beach Express Bridge will no longer pay tolls.

The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) will meet with the Baldwin County Bridge Company (BCBC) that morning to sign paperwork regarding the purchase of the bridge.

ALDOT is paying BCBC $57 million for the bridge. The state will also pay $3 million to Orange Beach for road improvements.

The bridge company has been at the center of a lawsuit against ALDOT after the state made plans to build a nearby bridge across the Intercoastal Waterway. Once that bridge is complete, it will carry southbound traffic, and the Foley Beach Express will carry northbound traffic. The route from Interstate 10 will be named State Route 161.

BCBC raised rates last fall and said it had no choice after months of court battles with ALDOT. The sale will terminate BCBC's lawsuit, which means Orange Beach will no longer receive revenue from the tolls.

Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon stated he is not concerned with toll revenue, which only makes up 1.5% of the city’s annual budget. However, Kennon recently told Erica Thomas that he does have questions about ALDOT’s plans to eventually make the bridge northbound only.

As for drivers, refunds for accountholders will begin in June and be made to the credit card on file or by an emailed check. Those refunds should start on June 10th and be sent by June 24th.

How Will Traffic Patterns Change?

There have been several questions about how this will change the traffic on the Expressway. Many anticipate a drastic increase due to the current construction on Hwy. 59 bridge in Gulf Shores. The Alabama Department of Transportation released a few facts:

• Traffic Flow: Traffic control devices will be deployed to guide drivers through the existing plaza, maintaining one lane open in each direction.
• Speed Limits: Motorists are advised to adhere to reduced speed limits in the vicinity of the plaza during this period.
• Duration: The temporary traffic plan will be in place until ALDOT starts toll plaza demolition in the coming weeks.
• Increased Traffic Awareness: With the onset of summer, traffic in the area is expected to be higher. Motorists should plan for potential congestion and exercise caution.