MOBILE, Ala. — The long-anticipated I-10 Mobile River Bridge and Bayway Project has taken a major leap forward, as federal authorities commit to fast-tracking construction funding and preparation activities.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced this week that it will disburse a $550 million Bridge Investment Program grant originally awarded in 2024. This move follows the project’s inclusion in a list of 180 infrastructure efforts prioritized for streamlined permitting and funding.
“This is another positive step toward the completion of the Mobile River Bridge and Bayway Project,” said Tony Harris, spokesperson for the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT). “We appreciate the commitment from Secretary Sean Duffy and the Trump administration to expedite the completion of the funding process.”
Project Scope: New Bridge and Wider Bayway
The project includes the construction of a new cable-stayed bridge over the Mobile River and the widening of the I-10 Bayway, a key corridor for Gulf Coast travel and freight. Once completed, the project is expected to:
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Ease traffic congestion on I-10 through Mobile Bay
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Enhance safety and reliability for travelers
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Improve transport of hazardous materials
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Reduce disruptions to Mobile’s maritime operations
Joint Venture Takes Charge
ALDOT has confirmed that the Kiewit Massman Traylor (KMT) joint venture, already tasked with designing the bridge, will continue to lead construction. The firm has initiated pre-construction testing, including a Pile Load Test Program to assess the foundation’s stability.
Testing will take place between May and August at six sites along the proposed bridge route. Work will occur during daylight hours (6 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and will not impact I-10 traffic, ALDOT confirmed.
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Political Spotlight on Funding Timeline
While the grant was first awarded under the Biden administration in 2024, U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures (D-Mobile) criticized delays linked to a temporary funding freeze imposed by the Trump administration.
“It’s unfortunate that this funding was delayed… but I’m glad to see this money is finally flowing to Mobile,” Figures said in a statement.
Construction Start Expected by Year-End
Before major construction can commence, ALDOT must finalize two critical items:
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A guaranteed maximum price agreement with the contractor
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Completion of the TIFIA (Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act) loan process
Officials remain optimistic that groundbreaking can take place before the end of 2025.
FACTSHEET: Mobile River Bridge Project
Project Name:
I-10 Mobile River Bridge and Bayway Widening Project
Location:
Mobile, Alabama
Key Features:
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New cable-stayed bridge over the Mobile River
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Widened I-10 Bayway corridor
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Improved safety and traffic capacity
Lead Agency:
Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT)
Design & Construction Team:
Kiewit Massman Traylor (KMT) joint venture
Federal Support:
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$550 million Bridge Investment Program grant (USDOT)
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TIFIA loan process underway
Timeline Highlights:
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Pile load testing: May–August 2025
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Construction groundbreaking expected: Late 2025
Traffic Impact:
No traffic disruptions expected during initial testing phase
