Public outrage prompts change to major East Alabama intersection

Public outrage over a light installed at a major East Alabama intersection helped prompt another change. Drivers reported nothing but headaches and serious congestion at the intersection of US-280 and the JR Allen Parkway heading into Columbus after a red light was installed earlier this summer.

The Alabama Department of Transportation heard the complaints loud and clear and announced another change Thursday August 27, 2026. “We’ve heard the feedback and we are going to be making changes to the intersection of US-280 and US-80 in Phenix City. Construction is scheduled to begin right after Labor Day.”

Following recent modifications, ALDOT evaluated traffic and gathered feedback from the public and local officials. In response to initial safety concerns, maintenance crews adjusted the signal on US-280 West onto US-80 East (JR Allen Parkway) to a no turn on red.

To alleviate congestion, ALDOT will return the right turn movement to a free flow condition. To accommodate this change, crews will construct a short receiving lane for the inside dual left turn lane from US-280 onto the US-80 ramp, allowing those drivers to make a left turn and then merge right.

The contractor plans to begin paving, striping, signage installation, and signal adjustments the week of September 7, following the Labor Day holiday. Drivers should pay attention to electronic message boards and follow ALDOT Southeast Region social media channels for updates on the upcoming traffic shift.

ALDOT thanks the public for its feedback and asks for patience as crews work to optimize the safety and efficiency of the intersection. Travelers are reminded to slow down, avoid distractions, and pay attention to people and equipment in the work zone.

Visit ALGOtraffic.com or download the ALGO Traffic app for real-time traffic and road condition information.