By By ANNA M. LEE Assistant Editor
This morning begins the part of CSX Transportation's railroad crossing repair that will have the biggest impact on area residents.
From 6 a.m. today until Friday morning, the Mildred Street crossing will be closed, meaning a detour and a need for extra patience and caution for all who would normally travel that route.
Because the street is a state highway, the Alabama Department of Transportation is coordinating all things related to the detour, such as barricading, putting up signs and traffic control.
As about 24,000 vehicles travel that intersection every day, many people will feel the impact of the crossing repair, but efforts are being made to make detouring clear and safe for drivers.
North bound traffic will be detoured onto Lee Street and south bound traffic will use Deer Street.
Howard also urges drivers to remember that trains will still be passing through the area and extra caution will be necessary, especially during the night while state troopers won't be present to direct traffic.
Once work at the Mildred Street crossing is complete, CSX will continue its repairs to the Jones Road, Cook Road, East Street and McLellan Street crossings. All work is expected to be complete by March 19.