Traffic signals to be removed as part of Downtown Street Optimization Plan
Aug 4th, 2025
Posted in: Public NoticePress ReleaseTraffic Engineering
- August 4, 2025 -
For Immediate Release
Traffic signals to be removed as part of Downtown Street Optimization Plan
Mobile, Ala. — Work to remove traffic signals from select downtown intersections will begin on Monday, August 11, as part of a multi-year street optimization effort aimed at making downtown safer and more efficient for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.
The City of Mobile is leading this project, which stems from a comprehensive plan created by the Downtown Mobile Alliance working with renowned urban planner Jeff Speck. During his visit, Speck met with downtown businesses and key stakeholders to identify ways to improve the area’s functionality and accessibility. The resulting strategy emphasized creating a more walkable, efficient, and safer downtown for everyone — whether you’re traveling on foot, on a bike, or in a vehicle.
The $1.1 million effort beginning next week will remove 26 traffic signals from low-volume intersections in the downtown area. In most of these locations, the signals will be replaced with four-way stops to improve traffic flow and increase pedestrian safety. The project will also improve pedestrian safety and access by installing new ADA ramps and restriping crosswalks.
All 26 of the traffic signals scheduled for removal will begin flashing red on Monday morning and will continue to do so for 90 days. This transition period gives motorists and pedestrians time to adjust to the new all-way stop and allows traffic engineers to observe driver behavior.
Work to implement the Downtown Street Optimization Plan will take place in stages to minimize disruption to downtown businesses and public events. The project is expected to be fully completed in the spring of 2026. Drivers are urged to use caution in areas where construction is underway. Additional updates and traffic advisories will be provided throughout the project at cityofmobile.org.