The Alabama Department of Transportation has begun work to raise three bridges that cross over Interstate-65 in Chilton County.

The bridges will be raised along County Road 43, County Road 59 and Highway 145. The guardrail on the overpasses will also be updated.

According to ALDOT, the projects are being completed to improve safety and aid freight traffic.

Construction started Dec. 7 and is expected to be completed in the early part of the summer. However, weather patterns may play a factor in the projected time table.

Bridge Builders of Alabama are in charge of the $1.89 million project.

The project has begun at the County Road 43 bridge, which will require the bridge to be closed.

A detour will guide travelers to routes along County Roads 29, 13 and 81 during this time.

The project is prohibited from having any lane closures on Interstate-65, Highway 145 or County Road 59 between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m.

By enforcing no closures during that time, ALDOT expects the travel impact on school and work traffic to be minimized.

However, ALDOT does advise motorists to expect minor delays and observe the work-zone posted speed limits.