Notice of Dangerous Situation

 

 

Notice to all residents and anyone who travels through Cherokee County: please be aware the westbound lane of Alabama Highway 68 between Leesburg and Sand Rock was significantly damaged during recent flooding and is closed to all traffic, including local and thru traffic. Despite the road closure signage and widespread media notification, numerous motorists are driving around the barricades into oncoming traffic. This is a very dangerous situation. Many motorists have stated they simply did not want to drive “the long way around.” Local law enforcement and sheriff's deputies have been extremely busy writing citations and trying to prevent accidents on Alabama Highway 68. As it is a state highway, I have been in contact with the Department of Transportation and Alabama Law Enforcement officials to request State Troopers be posted at the bottom of the mountain to help warn motorists not to ignore the barricade. Until then, local law enforcement will help in this effort, as much as we are available. According to the Alabama Department of Transportation, repairs to this section of roadway will be extensive and could take a month or longer to repair. Please be patient and allow sufficient time to detour, obey the signs, and do not risk your life or the lives of others.