MADISON – The long-anticipated opening of the new interchange entering the Town Madison District from I-565 eastbound was held this morning. City and area leaders met to cut the ribbon to open phase one of the project. Future phases will eventually connect to the westbound side of I-565.

The opening comes just in time to handle expected traffic to see the Rocket City Trash Pandas play their first home game at Toyota Field on May 11. Speculation swirled during the past few months if the opening would come in time for the new Minor League Baseball team’s home debut.

City officials said finalizing the interchange was a group effort by the Alabama Department of Transportation, city and state leaders, and Town Madison.

“This interchange will improve interstate access for Toyota Field, Madison residents and allow for additional retail, restaurant and office developments to occur at Town Madison,” said Madison Communication Specialist Samantha Magnuson. “Commuters to Redstone Arsenal will also benefit as this interchange will provide an additional interstate access for workers using Gate 7 on Zierdt Road, easing traffic and reducing backups at Gate 9 on Research Boulevard.”