Traffic on SR-273/Blue Pond Road in Cherokee County will cross via a temporary bridge during replacement of the bridge over Daniels Branch, north of Leesburg.

A short diversion road connects the temporary bridge to the highway.

The bridge over Daniels Branch was constructed 100 years ago.

The $5.7 million project to demolish and replace the 100-year-old bridge began earlier this year but has so far focused on site preparation and installation of the modular steel Acrow bridge.

Why a temporary bridge?

The temporary bridge will allow through traffic to continue using SR-273 during construction. Without it, a detour of more than 40 miles via state routes would have been necessary.

The $5.7 million contract with McInnis Construction for demolition and replacement of the bridge includes construction of the diversion lane.

Traffic will switch to the temporary bridge Monday. ALDOT advises motorists to expect brief stoppages and delays during the transition. Visit ALGOtraffic.com or download the ALGO Traffic app for real-time traffic and road condition information.

Demolition to follow

Following the traffic switch, contractor McInnis Construction will start demolition of the bridge constructed in 1925.

ALDOT anticipates completion of the project in late 2026.

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