[Frankie117]

While driving I-85 out of Montgomery, Alabama I noticed a large embankment that extends about 2 miles South. It appears to have been a bypass project that was never finished....what is the story on it?

[MullinsCurve]

Near what mile marker or exit is it?

[Frankie117]

Not entirely sure what milepost, but as you head East on I-85 out of Montgomery, it is between the Wares Ferry Road overpass, and the Atlanta Highway. (The area where US 80 runs next to the Interstate. If you take Vaughn Road out of Montgomery, you'll eventually cross over it.

It's really weird because there is a massive embankment, and what looks like the beginnings of an interchange with I-85. Judging by the aging of the concrete on top of the embankment, the segment has probably sat there for a good 10-20 years.

[MullinsCurve]

I've been there several times, but have not ever noticed it. Wonder if it could be remnants of the old roadway for US 80? It runs parallel to I-85 there, crossing under the interstate at Mitylene, going from the north side to the south side as you go east.

[Frankie117]

Originally Posted by MullinsCurve

I've been there several times, but have not ever noticed it. Wonder if it could be remnants of the old roadway for US 80? It runs parallel to I-85 there, crossing under the interstate at Mitylene, going from the north side to the south side as you go east.

US 80 is parallel though, this corridor runs North - South perpandicular to US 80 and I-85. Approximately 2 miles of abandoned grade-separated interstate.

[MullinsCurve]

Originally Posted by Frankie117

US 80 is parallel though, this corridor runs North - South perpandicular to US 80 and I-85. Approximately 2 miles of abandoned grade-separated interstate.

I have a cousin who is high up in the state road dept, I'll ask him. US 80 was 4 laned there at one time.

[Frankie117]

Originally Posted by MullinsCurve

I have a cousin who is high up in the state road dept, I'll ask him. US 80 was 4 laned there at one time.

I'll continue research on my end as well.

[Golfman1378]

What you are seeing is the preliminary roadbed for the Outer Loop around Montgomery that has not progressed any further. I have lived in the state for only 18 months but apparently projects like these (expensive) are not funded to completion so when the dollars stop flowing so does the roadwork. There is some talk about creating a Tollroad Authority that would finish this much needed project.

[NicoleC]

Unfortunately, the issues of stagnant road projects for lack of funding are not an Alabama problem, you get them everywhere.

[MullinsCurve]

I spoke with my cousin. It is the dormant outer loop project. As the highway dept gets money, it is still buying land and bridges, etc have been designed. He said that is a big politcal joke.