Flashing signs prevent traffic from crossing the Forrest Street bridges east of U.S. 31 in Athens in this March 4, 2019, file photo.

The Forrest Street bridges are officially closed to the public as crews begin a replacement project that could last up to 18 months.

The project dates back to 2013 and is part of the Alabama Transportation Rehabilitation and Improvement Program. Athens Public Works Director James Rich said the bridges, located just east of U.S. 31, are “structurally deficient” by today’s standards.

Once the $4-million project is complete, the bridges will be about twice as wide and almost twice as long, with safety barriers and a pedestrian lane so residents can access the Swan Creek Greenway.

In preparing for the project, detours were set up then promoted through social media, traditional media and message boards on city streets. Primary routes included Lindsay Lane, Alabama 251 and U.S. 72.

City of Athens Communications Specialist Holly Hollman and Athens Police Chief Floyd Johnson said they hadn’t heard of any traffic issues Monday morning as a result of the closing, though Hollman said she did hear of a few people who failed to stop at the new traffic lights installed at the intersection of Lindsay Lane and Alabama 251.

The intersection used to be a four-way stop. Temporary traffic lights were activated Monday.

The bridges could reopen in summer 2020, depending on weather and speed of construction.