U.S. Route 43

U.S. Route 43 marker

U.S. Route 43
Route information
Length: 410 mi[1] (660 km)
Existed: 1934[2][3] – present
Major junctions
South end: US 90 in Prichard, AL
 
North end:
US 31 / US 412 / US 412 Bus. in Columbia, TN
Location
States: Alabama, Tennessee
Counties: AL: Mobile, Washington, Clarke, Marengo, Greene, Tuscaloosa, Fayette, Marion, Franklin, Colbert, Lauderdale
TN: Lawrence, Maury
Highway system
  • Alabama State Routes
← SR 42ALSR 44 →
← SR 42TNSR 43 →

U.S. Route 43 (US 43) is a 410-mile-long (660 km) north–south United States Highway in the East South Central States of Alabama and Tennessee. It travels from Prichard, Alabama to Columbia, Tennessee. The highway's southern terminus is in Prichard, at an intersection with US 90. Its northern terminus is in Columbia, Tennessee, at an intersection with US 31/US 412/US 412 Bus.

In Alabama and Tennessee, all of the U.S. Highways in each state have one or more unsigned state highways designated along its length. US 43 travels concurrently with Alabama State Route 13 (SR 13) from its southern terminus to an intersection in southeastern Fayette County. For the rest of its length in the state, US 43 is concurrent with signed state highways. In Tennessee, US 43 travels concurrently with Tennessee State Route 6 (SR 6) along its entire length in the state. It also has an unsigned concurrency with SR 227 between Saint Joseph and Loretto.

Route description

Alabama

Mobile County

US 43, along with unsigned SR 13, begins at an interchange with US 90 (New Bay Bridge Road; unsigned SR 16) in the extreme southeastern corner of Prichard, in Mobile County. This interchange is west-northwest of Old Plateau Cemetery. It travels to the north-northwest and leaves Prichard and travels through a brief section of Mobile. The highway crosses over some railroad tracks and enters Chickasaw. It passes Paul Devine Park and curves to the north. It passes the Northgate Shopping Center and curves to the north-northeast. It then crosses over Chickasaw Creek on the R.B. Smallwood Sr. Memorial Bridge. Not long after, US 43 leaves Chickasaw and enters Saraland. It has an intersection with the eastern terminus of SR 158 (Industrial Parkway). It crosses over Norton Creek and intersects the northern terminus of SR 213 (Shelton Beach Road). Almost immediately is a crossing of Bayou Sara. A few thousand feet later, the highway enters Satsuma. It passes Satsuma High School and Satsuma Lions Park before crossing over Steele Creek. It curves to the north-northwest and has an interchange with Interstate 65 (I-65). US 43 leaves Satsuma and curves back to the north-northeast. It crosses over Gunnison Creek and enters Creola. It passes Creola Cemetery and then leaves the city limits of Creola. The highway then travels through Axis and curves to the north-northwest. The highway curves to the north and travels through Le Moyne. It intersects the eastern terminus of County Route 84 (CR 84; Salco Road) and then crosses over Cold Creek. After crossing over Sisters Creek, the highway travels through Barry Village and Bucks. It crosses over Grady Hall Creek and travels through Chastang. It crosses over Conrad Creek. After passing Roper Cemetery, it curves to the north-northwest and enters Movico. Just after leaving Movico, the highway curves to the north-northeast and crosses over Cedar Creek. Almost immediately, it enters Mount Vernon. There, it intersects the eastern terminus of CR 96 (Citronelle Road). It curves to the north and crosses over Beaver Dam Creek before leaving Mount Vernon. The highway crosses over Borrow Creek and then has an interchange with ThyssenKrupp Drive. It enters the southern part of Calvert. While in the center part of Calvert, it crosses into Washington County.[4]

Washington County

Almost immediately, US 43 intersects the eastern terminus of CR 4 (Fairford Road) and passes Calvert Cemetery. It curves to the north-northwest, leaves Calvert, and crosses over Poll Bayou. It curves to the north-northeast and crosses over Little Poll Bayou. The highway travels through Malcolm and curves back to the north-northwest before crossing over the Tombigbee River. It then crosses over Bilbo Creek before entering McIntosh. The highway intersects CR 35 (John Johnston Road) just before passing Andrews Chapel, a historic log church. The two highways have an unsigned concurrency through town. US 43 curves to the north and leaves the city limits of McIntosh. Then, it passes McIntosh Elementary School. After traveling through some rural areas of the county, it enters Deer Head, where it intersects the eastern terminus of CR 20 (Hawthorne Road). A short distance to the north, it crosses over Long Branch just before passing Harris Cemetery. The highway curves to the north-northeast and crosses over Graves Creek. It then crosses over Roberts Creek. It curves to the north-northwest and crosses over Armstrong Creek, just before entering Wagarville. There, it intersects CR 6 and then the eastern terminus of SR 56. After beginning a curve to the northeast, it has a crossing of Bassett Creek. The highway crosses over Gaines Creek and then curves to the east-northeast, before entering Leroy. It has a very brief unsigned concurrency with CR 34. Then, US 43 passes Leroy High School, curves back to the northeast, and passes the U.S. post office of Leroy. After leaving Leroy, the highway has a second crossing of the Tombigbee River on the Joe C. McCorquodale Bridge. At this crossing, it enters Clarke County.[5]

Clarke County

US 43 curves to the east and intersects the southern terminus of SR 177 (Commerce Street). It curves to the east-southeast and enters Jackson. It then curves back to the northeast and intersects SR 69. The highway passes the Jackson Medical Center and then intersects the northern terminus of SR 177 (College Avenue). Farther into the city is an intersection with the western terminus of CR 10 (Walker Springs Road). The highway curves to the north-northwest and leaves the city limits of Jackson. It curves to the north-northeast and intersects the southern terminus of CR 3. Then, it intersects the eastern terminus of CR 16 (Toddtown Road). Just before entering Grove Hill, US 43 intersects the northern terminus of CR 29 (Allen Road). On the southern city limits of Grove Hill is an intersection with the southern terminus of SR 295 and CR 18 (Hebron Road). The highway curves to the north-northwest and has an interchange with US 84 (unsigned SR 12; Grove Hill Avenue). Within the interchange is a crossing of Bob Branch. US 43 curves back to the north-northeast and briefly leaves the city limits of Grove Hill. On the northern city limits is an intersection with the northern terminus of SR 295 (North Jackson Street). The highway passes the Magnolia Lawns Cemetery just before intersecting the southern terminus of CR 17 (Chilton Road). US 43 enters Fulton, where it intersects the western terminus of SR 178. It intersects the eastern terminus of CR 9 and then passes Kelley Cemetery. After that, it crosses over Tantroft Branch just before entering Thomasville. It crosses over Allen Branch and then enters the main part of the city. There, it passes Alabama Southern Community College, Thomasville High School, Thomasville Middle School, and Thomasville Elementary School. Farther in the city is an intersection with the eastern terminus of SR 154 (Tallahatta Springs Road). Just before leaving Thomasville is an intersection with the southern terminus of SR 5. The highway winds its way through rural areas of the county and then enters Marengo County.[6]

Marengo County

US 43 heads to the north-northwest and crosses over Mud Creek. It then enters Dixons Mills. It crosses over Little Creek. It passes Dixon Cemetery and intersects the northern terminus of CR 37. After crossing Mill Creek, the highway enters the main part of the community. Here, it intersects SR 10. The highway curves to the north-northeast and intersects CR 6 (Deer Run Road). It then passes the U.S. post office for the community. After curving back to the north-northwest, the highway leaves the community. It winds its way in a northerly direction and intersects the western terminus of CR 55. After a crossing of Sweetwater Creek is an intersection with the eastern terminus of CR 16. The highway travels through Wayne and then intersects the western terminus of CR 30. US 43 crosses over Beaver Creek and continues its winding path through rural areas of the county. It intersects the southern terminus of CR 47. Later is a crossing of Little Beaver Creek. After an intersection with the southern terminus of CR 33, the highway crosses over Sycamore Creek. Just before entering Linden, it crosses over the creek again. In the southern part of the city is a second intersection with SR 69. The two highways travel concurrently to the north. They cross over Springfield Creek and then over some railroad tracks of BNSF Railway. A very short distance later is a crossing of some railroad tracks of CSX. In downtown Linden, SR 28 (East Coats Avenue) joins the concurrency for about five blocks. The three highways pass Linden High School. At Cahaba Avenue, SR 28 splits off, while US 43 and SR 69 continue to the north. They curve to the northeast and leave the city limits of Linden. They cross over Chickasaw Bogue Creek just before entering Providence. They intersect CR 44. It joins the concurrency as an unsigned highway. Almost immediately, first SR 69 and then CR 44 split off. At this point, US 43 resumes a northward direction. It leaves the city limits of Providence and travels within the northeast portion of Chickasaw State Park. The highway resumes its gradual twisting route to the north and then intersects the southern terminus of CR 1. It crosses over Barton Creek just before intersecting the western terminus of CR 35. This intersection is just west of Old Spring Hill. US 43 crosses over Double Creek and curves back to the north. It curves again to the north-northwest and intersects the western terminus of CR 54. It then enters Demopolis. It crosses over some railroad tracks of BNSF Railway and passes the Memorial Garden Cemetery. Farther to the northwest, it begins a concurrency with US 80 (unsigned SR 8). They cross over the Whitfield Canal right at an intersection with the northern terminus of CR 21 (Jefferson Road). About one block later, US 43 turns right and resumes its northward direction. It passes the Bryan Whitfield Memorial Hospital just before a second crossing of Whitfield Canal. It passes Demopolis Middle School and then crosses over some railroad tracks of Norfolk Southern Railway. At East Capitol Street, US 43 turns left and travels due west for two blocks. At North Walnut Avenue, the highway turns right and resumes a due north direction. It leaves the city limits of Demopolis and travels just east of the Demopolis State Wildlife Management Area. Then, it crosses over two tributaries of the Black Warrior River before crossing over the river itself on the William Rufus King Bridge. At this crossing, the highway enters Greene County.[7]

Greene County

Right after crossing the Black Warrior River, US 43 intersects the southern terminus of CR 18 (Steam Plant Road), which leads to Backbone Creek Boat Ramp and Demopolis Wildlife Management Area. It crosses over two more tributaries of the river before intersecting the southern terminus of CR 11. The highway crosses over yet another tributary of the river and then curves to the north-northeast. It crosses over Birdine Creek and then intersects the eastern terminus of CR 41 (Birdeye Park Road), which leads to Logan and Birdine cemeteries. US 43 crosses over some railroad tracks of BNSF Railway and curves to the north-northwest. It intersects the northern terminus of CR 18, which leads to the Greene County Electric Generating Plant. It curves to the northwest and enters Forkland. After an intersection with the southern terminus of CR 21 (McDaniel Drive), the highway crosses over Negrofoot Branch. It then intersects CR 20 (M.L. King Drive), which leads to Boligee. After crossing over Taylor Branch, US 43 intersects the southern terminus of CR 69 (A.L. Isaac Road) and the western terminus of CR 41 (Lloyd Chapel Road). Right after this intersection, US 43 passes the town hall for Forkland. A short distance later, it leaves the city limits and continues to the northwest. It intersects the eastern terminus of CR 42. It curves to the north-northwest and then crosses over Needham Creek. Then, it intersects CR 148. It curves to the north-northeast and passes Zion Friendship Cemetery. It crosses over Stephens Creek and then enters Eutaw. It intersects CR 154. The two highways have an unsigned concurrency for one block. After they split, US 43 crosses over White Creek. Farther into the city, it begins a concurrency with SR 14 (Greensboro Street). The two highways travel to the northwest and cross over some railroad tracks of Norfolk Southern Railway. Then, they curve to the west and enter the main part of the city. At Morrow Avenue, US 43 and SR 14 intersect US 11 (Boligee Street; unsigned SR 7). The three highways travel to the north on Morrow Avenue for one block. At Tuscaloosa Street, SR 14 splits off, while US 11 and US 43 turn right and travel to the east. The concurrency gradually curves to the north-northwest and leaves the city. The highways curve to the north-northeast, cross over Jordan Branch, and intersect the western terminus of CR 231. After they intersect the southern terminus of CR 167 (Springfield Fire Tower Road), the intersect the southern terminus of CR 208 (M.L. King Highway), which leads to Green Track and Union. They intersect the southern terminus of CR 211, cross over Minter Creek, and intersect the western terminus of CR 210. Just after crossing over Spencers Creek, they intersect the southern terminus of CR 217. A little farther on, they cross over Sims Creek. The curve to the north-northwest and intersect the western terminus of CR 86 just before an interchange with I-20/I-59. Just after this interchange, the concurrency travels through Knoxville. After crossing over Little Buck Creek, the two highways enter Tuscaloosa County.[8]

Tuscaloosa County

US 11 and US 43 continue to the north-northeast and intersect CR 67. It joins the concurrency as an unsigned highway. After CR 67 splits off onto Ralph Loop Road, the two U.S. highways cross over Buck Creek just south of Ralph. They then cross over Beaver Creek just before an intersection with the eastern terminus of CR 19 (also part of Ralph Loop Road). Almost immediately is an intersection with the northern terminus of CR 75 (Shepherd Park Road). Just before crossing over Phillips Creek is an intersection with the southern terminus of CR 79 (Sylvan Loop Road). They cross over Grant Creek and then intersect the northern terminus of CR 79 (Sylvan Loop Road). In Fosters, they intersect the southern terminus of CR 10 (Gainesville Road) and the northern terminus of Holley Springs Lane. They cross over Dry Creek, and then cross over the Black Warrior River on the Foster Ferry Bridge. They pass Liberty Cemetery and then intersect the western terminus of CR 44 (Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard). Farther to the northeast, they enter Tuscaloosa. They intersect CR 16 (Joe Mallisham Parkway), which acts like a western bypass of the city. This intersection is just west of Palmore Park. They curve to the east-southeast and intersect the eastern terminus of CR 27 (Old Sanders Ferry Road). They travel along the northern edge of Stillman College and then intersects CR 16 (Fosters Ferry Road/Stillman Boulevard). They cross over a rail yard and then have an interchange with I-359/SR 69 (Lurleen B. Wallace Boulevard). At this interchange, which is the northern terminus of I-359, US 11 turns right and follows I-359/SR 69 south, while US 43 turns left to follow SR 69 north. The two highways travel to the north-northwest and pass the historic Bama Theatre. They cross over the Black Warrior River on the Hugh R. Thomas Bridge. They then enter Northport. They have an interchange with 5th Street. This interchange is just west of Collins–Riverside Middle School. They curve to the north and intersect US 82 (McFarland Boulevard; unsigned SR 6). At this intersection, SR 69 continues to the north, while US 43 turns left onto US 82 for a brief concurrency. They travel to the northwest and curve to the west-southwest. At Main Avenue, the two highways split. US 43 resumes a northwesterly direction. It briefly leaves the city limits of Northport. After re-entering the city, it intersects the eastern terminus of CR 86 (Flatwoods Road). It curves to the northeast and intersects the southern terminus of SR 171. It curves to the north and intersects the northern terminus of CR 62 (Northcreek Boulevard) and the eastern terminus of Oak Meadow Drive. After curving to the north-northeast, it intersects the northern terminus of CR 84 (Charlie Shirley Road). It crosses over Carroll Creek and then intersects the western terminus of CR 56 (Mitt Lary Road) and the northern terminus of Rose Boulevard. Right after this intersection, US 43 leaves the city limits of Northport. It crosses over a southwestern arm of Lake Tuscaloosa just before intersecting CR 90 (Bone Camp Road). The two highways have a brief unsigned concurrency. CR 90 splits off onto Tierce Patton Road. This intersection is also the eastern terminus of Lakeland Hills Drive. US 43 curves to the north-northeast and crosses over part of Lake Tuscaloosa. After this crossing, the highway travels along the western edge of Binion Creek Landing Park. In Samantha, it intersects the western terminus of CR 80 (North Hagler Road). After curving back to the north-northwest, it intersects the southern terminus of CR 63 (Gorgas Road). It curves to the northwest and intersects CR 38 (Northside Road) on the southeastern edge of Northside High School. After a very brief unsigned concurrency with CR 40 (Campground Road/Sherman Road), it curves to the north-northwest and has another unsigned concurrency with CR 12 (Max Vintson Road/Etteca Road). It passes Boone Cemetery and crosses over Boone Creek. After curving to the north-northeast, it intersects CR 55 (Doughty Road/Shiver De Freeze Road). US 43 travels to the north and crosses over Freeman Creek. The highway then enters Fayette County.[9]

Fayette County

US 43 curves to the north-northwest and crosses over Sandy Point Creek. It curves to the north-northeast and intersects the eastern terminus of CR 26. Just after this intersection is one with SR 18. At this intersection, US 43 ends its southern concurrency with SR 13 and begins a concurrency with SR 18. Also, SR 13 becomes a signed highway at this intersection. US 43 and SR 18 travel to the north-northwest and curve to the north-northeast just before intersecting the southern terminus of CR 132. After curving back to the north-northwest, they intersect the northern terminus of CR 132. The two highways cross over Deadwater Creek and enter Bankston. In that community, they intersect the southern terminus of CR 93 and then the southern terminus of CR 67. After leaving Bankston, they cross over Deadwater Creek again. They curve to the southwest and intersect the southern terminus of CR 101. They intersect the northern terminus of CR 91 before curving to the west-northwest. They intersect the southern terminus of CR 77 and then the southern terminus of CR 9 before crossing over Boxes Creek. They curve to the west-southwest and travel through Stough. US 43 and SR 18 curve back to the southwest and intersect the eastern terminus of CR 81. A short distance later is the western terminus of CR 81. Just before curving to the west-northwest, they enter Rossland City, where they intersect CR 26. They intersect CR 53 just before crossing over the Sipsey River. Approximately 2,000 feet (610 m) after the river is the city limits of Fayette. In downtown Fayette, they intersect SR 171 (2nd Avenue Southeast). At this intersection, SR 18 continues to the west-northwest on Columbus Street West, and US 43 and SR 171 travel concurrently to the north-northeast on 2nd Avenue Northeast. They pass Fayette County High School and then Guthrie Smith Park. Then, they intersect the eastern terminus of CR 38. Then they pass Bevill State Community College's Brewer Campus. Just after leaving the city limits of Fayette, they intersect the southern terminus of CR 32. Then, they pass Oakwood Cemetery before intersecting the southern terminus of CR 80. The two highways intersect the southern terminus of SR 129. They cross over Musgrove Creek just before intersecting the western terminus of SR 102. They curve to the north-northwest and cross over Hubbert Mill Creek and then briefly travel through the Fayette State Experiment Forest. They intersect the southern terminus of CR 87 before crossing over Stewart Creek. After intersecting the eastern terminus of CR 97 and the western terminus of Calvin Fowler Road, US 43 and SR 171 curve to a nearly due north direction. They intersect the western terminus of CR 34. The highways curve to the north-northeast and enter Winfield. They intersect the southern terminus of CR 147. They then have a very brief unsigned concurrency with CR 146. They curve to the northeast and have a one-block unsigned concurrency with CR 49. At this intersection, the highways temporarily leave the city limits of Winfield. They begin a curve to the north-northwest and cross over Moss Creek before re-entering Winfield. They intersect the western terminus of CR 54 and then the western terminus of CR 88. On the northern side of this intersection is the Marion County line.[10]

Marion County

US 43 and SR 171 continue to the north-northwest and enter the main part of Winfield. They cross over the East Branch Luxapallila Creek and then over some railroad tracks of BNSF Railway before intersecting SR 118 (Bankhead Highway) and the southern terminus of SR 253. US 43, SR 118, and SR 171 travel concurrently to the southeast. They intersect the eastern terminus of CR 28 and curve to the northwest. They pass the Northwest Medical Center and then intersect the northern terminus of CR 69. They cross over Luxapallila Creek before intersecting the western terminus of CR 4. They leave Winfield and enter Gu-Win. The highways pass the West Alabama Memorial Gardens and then intersect the southern terminus of CR 27. They then leave Gu-Win and enter Guin. They cross over Reedy Branch and intersect the southern terminus of CR 21 before they curve to the west-southwest. They pass a 3M plant before they intersect the western terminus of SR 44 (7th Street). The highways pass the Guin City Cemetery before crossing over Little Creek. They intersect US 278 (unsigned SR 74) and the eastern terminus of SR 142 (11th Avenue West). At this intersection, SR 118 turns left onto US 278 west. Also, US 43 and SR 171 turn right onto US 278 east, and the three highways travel to the north-northwest. The concurrency curves to the north-northeast and passes Guin Elementary School. The highways pass Marion County High School. They curve back to the north-northwest and intersect the western terminus of CR 50. They then intersect the southern terminus of CR 54. Farther along is an intersection with the northern terminus of CR 58 (Frye Road) and the western terminus of Ash Street. They cross over Beaver Creek. They temporarily leave the city limits of Guin. Right after re-entering the city, they intersect the southern terminus of CR 45. They briefly travel through the northwestern part of the city before leaving it for good. Just over 1 mile (1.6 km) later, they intersect the southern terminus of CR 2. After entering Hamilton, they cross over Dugan Creek just before reaching an interchange with I-22/US 78/SR 4. Farther into the city, they intersect the northern terminus of CR 35 on the eastern edge of the city. They travel to the north and cross over the Buttahatchee River. They cross over Key Branch before reaching an intersection with the western terminus of CR 42 and the eastern terminus of 10th Avenue Southwest. They curve to the north-northeast and intersect SR 17. At this intersection, SR 171 ends and SR 17 joins the US 43/US 278 concurrency. This intersection is on the southeastern edge of Hamilton High School. At Bexar Avenue West, US 278 turns right, while US 43 and SR 17 continue to the north-northeast. They cross over Ragsdale Creek and then intersect the southern terminus of CR 29 (Military Trail). They cross over Williams Creek and then curve to the northeast before leaving Hamilton. The highways curve back to the north-northeast and intersect the southern terminus of SR 187. They cross over Sevenmile Creek then intersect the southern terminus of CR 41. The concurrency curves to the east-southeast and crosses over North Fork Creek. They head to the northeast again and cross over Gowder Branch. Then, they enter Hackleburg. They cross over Burnett Branch and then curve to the east-northeast. In the main part of town is an intersection with SR 172 and the southern terminus of SR 253 (Clay Street). US 43 and SR 17 pass Cedar Tree Cemetery and then leave Hackleburg. They cross over Bear Creek and enter Franklin County.[11]

Franklin County

US 43 and SR 17 pass Dismals Canyon before intersecting the eastern terminus of CR 8, the southern terminus of CR 143, the western terminus of CR 51, and a brief unsigned concurrency with CR 16 (Gravel Hill Road/College Road; which leads to Phil Campbell and Northwest Shoals Community College's Phil Campbell campus), all in rapid succession. They cross over Little Bear Creek just before intersecting the southern terminus of CR 20. They cross over Schamagle Branch and then intersect CR 26. Approximately 1,000 feet (300 m) later is a second intersection with SR 13, which joins the concurrency. They intersect CR 22 and curve to the north. They cross over Robinson Creek and then intersect the eastern terminus of CR 64. Farther to the north is an intersection with the eastern terminus of CR 36. They curve to the northeast and cross over Cedar and Mud Creek. They cross over CR 46 (Fletcher Road) and then enter Russellville. They have a brief unsigned concurrency with CR 63 (Old Water Plant Road/Military Road). This intersection is also the western terminus of CR 42 (Walnut Gate Road). SR 42 leads to Russellville Industrial Park No. 1 and the Franklin County Sheriff's Office and Jail. This intersection is south-southeast of Southside Ball Field. In the main part of the city, the highways cross over Town Branch and then have an interchange with SR 24. The three highways curve to the north-northwest and intersect the western terminus of CR 48 and the eastern terminus of Courtland Road Northeast. After crossing over Garman Branch, the concurrency passes Russellville Hospital. They curve to the north-northeast and intersect CR 56 (Lagrange Road). After a short departure from the city limits, the highways re-enter the city very briefly. After they leave the city limits again, they curve to the northeast and cross over Stinking Bear Creek. US 43, SR 13, and SR 17 have one more brief transit of a portion of the city before leaving it for good. They pass the King Drive-In theater, the oldest, continually-operating theater in the state. The theater is on the corner of the intersection with CR 60. The concurrency very gradually curves to the north-northeast and enter Colbert County.[12]

Colbert County

US 43, SR 13, and SR 17 enter the city limits of Littleville, which is the southern extent of The Shoals. At the city limits of Littleville, they pass Hyde Cemetery. They travel just to the west of Hyde Lake. At the northern end of the lake, they intersect the southern terminus of CR 18 (Ligon Springs Road). They cross over Stinking Bear Creek again before a very brief unsigned concurrency with CR 55 (Osborn Hill Road/Jackson Highway). In the middle of town, they intersect CR 77 (Lynwood Avenue). After leaving Littleville, they begin paralleling some railroad tracks of Norfolk Southern Railway. They intersect the western terminus of CR 78 and curve to the north-northwest. After intersecting the eastern terminus of CR 42 (Blue Road), they cross over Hipps Creek. Then, they intersect CR 52 (Spring Valley Road/Cook Lane) and pass the historic Belle Mont mansion. The concurrency crosses over Thornton Branch and curves to a nearly due north direction. They cross over Spring Creek and then travel along the southeastern edge of Tuscumbia, passing Colbert County Memorial Gardens. Right after temporarily leaving Tuscumbia, they travel along the southwestern edge of Muscle Shoals. They have an intersection with US 72/US 72 Alt./unsigned SR 2/SR 20. At this intersection, US 72 Alt. reaches its western terminus, while US 72 and SR 20 join the US 43/SR 13/SR 17 concurrency. The five highways continue to the north, briefly travel in Tuscumbia proper before traveling along the Tuscumbia–Muscle Shoals city line. They pass the Muscle Shoals Sportsplex before they leave Tuscumbia. Then, they enter Muscle Shoals proper. They cross over some railroad tracks of Norfolk Southern Railway. Then, they intersect the western terminus of CR 24 (East 6th Street). On the west side of the intersection West 6th Street leads to Northwest Shoals Community College's North campus, downtown Tuscumbia, and Ivy Green, the childhood home of Helen Keller. On the Muscle Shoals–Sheffield city line, the highways intersect East 2nd Street. On the east side of the intersection, East 2nd Street carries the western terminus of SR 184. Right after this intersection, the concurrency travels along the northeastern edge of Sheffield. They pass administration offices of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). The five-highway concurrency passes offices of the Alabama state troopers and then the TVA Muscle Shoals Reservation and Wilson Dam. The highways curve to the northwest, cross over the TVA Nature Loop, and enter Sheffield proper. The five highways turn right onto North Jackson Highway and travel to the north. They curve to the north-northwest and leave the city limits of Sheffield. Then, they cross over the Tennessee River on the O'Neal Bridge and enter Lauderdale County.[13]

Lauderdale County

The US 43/US 72/SR 13/SR 17/SR 20 concurrency enters Florence immediately after crossing the river. It has an incomplete interchange where SR 20 leaves the concurrency to the west-southwest on Coffee Road. There is no access from SR 20 to US 43 north/US 72 east/SR 13 north/SR 17 north. This interchange is just northeast of McFarland Park. The highways turn right onto East Dr. Hicks Boulevard and travel to the east-northeast and then to the northeast. On the northwest corner of Florence Cemetery, the four highways curve back to the east-northeast onto East Tennessee Street. They curve to the north-northwest and travel on an overpass over North Royal Avenue. They begin to curve to the northeast and travel on an overpass over Railroad Avenue, some railroad tracks of CSX, and an unnamed stream. Immediately after this overpass is an interchange with SR 157 (Helton Drive). At this interchange, SR 17 departs the concurrency and heads northwest with SR 157. US 43, US 72, and SR 13 pass University of North Alabama's North campus. They pass historic Sweetwater Mansion, curve to the east-northeast, and pass Tri-Cities Memorial Gardens. After that, they intersect SR 133 (Cox Creek Parkway). A short distance later is an intersection with CR 61 (Middle Road). A few blocks later is an intersection with the southern terminus of CR 374 Just under 2,000 feet (610 m) later is an intersection with the southern terminus of CR 323 (Bailey Springs Road). The highways pass Jones Hill Cemetery just before intersecting the southern terminus of CR 27, which leads to the Boy Scouts of America's Camp Westmoreland. One block later is an intersection with the northern terminus of CR 367 (Lakeview Drive). After they leave the city limits of Florence, they cross over Shoal Creek on the Disabled American Veterans Memorial Bridge. Just west-southwest of Killen, US 72 continues to the east-northeast, while US 43 and SR 13 head to the northeast. The two-highway concurrency briefly travels along the northwest edge of Killen before they temporarily leave the town. A short distance later, they travel through the far northwestern corner of the city limits of Killen before leaving the town for good. They intersect the southern terminus of CR 63 and the northern terminus of Alabama Street. The concurrency curves to the north and have an unsigned concurrency with CR 170. One block later is an intersection with the southern terminus of CR 36. A short distance later, they intersect the western terminus of CR 396 and then CR 394 in close succession. Approximately 2,000 feet (610 m) later, they intersect CR 73. One block later is an intersection with the western terminus of CR 392. Approximately another 2,000 feet (610 m) later, is an intersection with the eastern terminus of CR 387. One block later is an intersection with the eastern terminus of CR 364 and the western terminus of SR 64. Approximately yet another 2,000 feet (610 m) later is an intersection with CR 34. Approximately 1,000 feet (300 m) later is a brief unsigned concurrency with CR 47, which leads to St. Florian. US 43 and SR 13 curve to the north-northeast and intersect CR 38. Approximately 1,500 feet (460 m) later is an intersection with CR 140. They then pass Rogers High School and then intersect the eastern terminus of CR 344 and then CR 8. Farther to the north-northeast is an intersection with CR 130 (South Old Military Road). Approximately 2,500 feet (760 m) later is an intersection with the northern terminus of CR 47. They cross over Shakerag Branch and travel another 2,500 feet (760 m) before reaching the Tennessee state line, where SR 13 ends.[14]

Tennessee

Lawrence County

US 43, and unsigned Tennessee State Route 6 (SR 6), which begins at the state line, enters Lawrence County and the city limits of Saint Joseph. It passes the Saint Joseph City Park and then enters the main part of the city. There, US 43 begins an unsigned concurrency with SR 227 (Iron City Road). It curves to the northeast, pass the Saint Joseph Cemetery, and crosses over Little Bluewater Creek. The highway curves to the east-northeast, leaves Saint Joseph, and enters Loretto. US 43 passes South Lawrence Elementary School and then Loretto High School. AFter crossing over Loretto Branch, it curves to the northeast. Then, SR 227 splits off to the southeast onto East Main Street. It passes Restview Cemetery and then leaves Loretto. It continues to the northeast and crosses over Bluewater Creek. Then, US 43 enters Leoma. It passes Leoma School and curves to the north-northeast before paralleling some railroad tracks of CSX and intersecting SR 98 (Rabbit Trail Road). It passes Leoma Cemetery and then leaves the community. It enters Lawrenceburg and curves to a nearly due north direction. It has an interchange with US 64 (unsigned SR 15; Lawrenceburg Highway). It curves back to the north-northeast and crosses over Coon Creek. It passes Crockett Hospital and then crosses over Shoal Creek on the Walt Watters Memorial Bridge. In downtown Lawrenceburg, US 43 intersects US 64 Bus. (Gaines Street). It crosses over Threemile and Fourmile hollows before passing the Team Lawrence Commerce Park. Then, it leaves the city limits of Lawrenceburg and enters Ethridge. The highway crosses over Crossfield Branch, leaves those CSX tracks, and begins paralleling Little Shoal Creek. It then crosses over that creek on the Jason Jackson Memorial Bridge. It leaves the city limits of Ethridge just before crossing over Brewer Branch. The highway curves to the north-northwest and crosses over the South Fork Buffalo River. It briefly parallels the North Fork Buffalo River before beginning a curve to the north and crossing that river twice. Then, US 43 intersects the eastern terminus of SR 240 (Monument Road) and the western terminus of Spring Water Drive. A short distance later, the highway enters Maury County.[15]

Maury County

Almost immediately, US 43 intersects the eastern terminus of SR 20. It crosses over some railroad tracks of CSX and Big Bigby Creek on the Judge Ed Workman Bridge. After winding its way through rural areas of the county, it crosses over the Big Bigby Creek again, this time on the Spencer Holman Memorial Bridge. At this crossing, the highway enters Mount Pleasant. It intersects the southern terminus of SR 243 (South Main Street). It travels on an overpass over Mt. Joy Road and some railroad tracks. US 43 travels through the western part of the city, bypassing downtown. It intersects SR 166 (1st Avenue). This intersection is just to the west of the Hay Long Wall Rotary Club Community Park. The highway curves to the east-northeast and crosses over Sugar Fork. Then it has an interchange with SR 243, which also leads to the Maury County Airport. It begins paralleling railroad tracks of CSX and travels south of Williams Spring Park. It then crosses over Patterson Branch before it crosses over Zion Road in the unincorporated community of Ashwood. Then, it has an interchange with Zion Road. The highway curves to the north-northeast and leaves the CSX tracks. At this point, the highway enters Columbia. US 43 crosses over East Fork Greenlick Creek. It then has an interchange with US 412 (unsigned SR 99) and the western terminus of US 412 Bus. (Hampshire Pike). At this interchange, US 43 and US 412 travel concurrently to the north-northeast. They also temporarily leave the city limits of Columbia. Then, they curve to the northeast. At an interchange with SR 50 (Williamsport Pike), the concurrency briefly re-enters the city before leaving again. The two highways curve to the east-southeast and re-enter the city three times before leaving again. They curve to the east-northeast, cross over Old Williamsport Pike, and re-enter the city. Immediately, they have an interchange with Industrial Park Road, which leads to a National Guard Maintenance Facility and the Maury County Sheriff Department. Within this interchange is a crossing of Little Bigby Creek. They cross over some railroad tracks. The concurrency curves to the east-southeast and has an interchange with SR 7 (Santa Fe Pike). Then, they cross over Duck River on the Rear Admiral Fran McKee Memorial Bridge. Then, they intersect US 31 and the eastern terminus of US 412 Bus (Nashville Highway). Here, US 43 ends, US 412 continues to the east-southeast on Bear Creek Pike, and SR 6 turns left onto US 31 north.[16]

National Highway System

All of US 43, except for the approximately 18-mile-long (29 km) segment from the interchange with I-20/I-59 south of Knoxville to just northeast of its entering Tuscaloosa, is part of the National Highway System (NHS), a system of highways determined to be the most important for the nation's economy, mobility, and defense.[17][18][19][20][21]

History

Prior to the completion of Corridor X in western Alabama, US 43 and US 278 shared a concurrency with US 78 between Guin and Hamilton. The highway used to extend up to Henderson, Kentucky. It was concurrent with I-24, I-65, the Pennyrile Parkway, and what is now present-day I-69. This part of US 43 was decommissioned when US 41 Alt. came into existence.

Future

Location: Mobile–Knoxville

Preliminary talks have indicated that Alabama state officials support a plan to upgrade US 43 to Interstate Highway standards from the Mobile metropolitan area to the I-20/I-59 interchange in Knoxville. However, no number has been specified. The plan is estimated to cost roughly $1.6 billion. The project is expected to help the economies of cities in the Black Belt by connecting communities in western Alabama, the Port of Mobile, I-65, and I-20/I-59.[22]

Major intersections

StateCountyLocationmi[1]kmDestinationsNotes
AlabamaMobilePrichard0.0000.000
US 90 (SR 16 / New Bay Bridge Road) to I‑165 / US 98 Truck – Grand Bay, Loxley		Interchange; southern terminus of US 43 and unsigned SR 13
ChickasawR.B. Smallwood Sr. Memorial BridgeCrossing over Chickasaw Creek
Saraland4.5397.305 SR 158 west (Industrial Parkway) – PrichardEastern terminus of SR 158
6.57410.580 SR 213 south (Shelton Beach Road) – PrichardNorthern terminus of SR 213
Satsuma10.57617.020 I‑65 – Mobile, MontgomeryI-65 exit 19; parclo interchange
​ThyssenKrupp DriveInterchange
WashingtonWagarville50.40681.121 SR 56 west (St. Stephens Avenue) – Jackson, ChatomEastern terminus of SR 56
Washington–Clarke
county line		​Joe C. McCorquodale BridgeCrossing of Tombigbee River
Clarke​59.62195.951 SR 177 north (Commerce Street) – Jackson, Alabama Southern College Jackson Campus, William E. Stewart Jackson Municipal AirportSouthern terminus of SR 177
Jackson61.10198.333 SR 69 (Coffeeville Road) – Legion Field, Jackson Academy, National Guard Armory, Old Lock One Park
62.341100.328 SR 177 south (College Avenue)Northern terminus of SR 177
Grove Hill SR 295 north / CR 18 (Hebron Road)Southern terminus of SR 295
75.760121.924 US 84 (SR 12 / Grove Hill Avenue) – Coffeeville, WhatleyDiamond interchange
SR 295 south (North Jackson Street)Northern terminus of SR 295
Fulton82.757133.184 SR 178 east – Fulton Healthcare ClinicWestern terminus of SR 178
Thomasville91.080146.579 SR 154 west (Tallahatta Springs Road)Eastern terminus of SR 154
93.087149.809 SR 5 north – Pine HillSouthern terminus of SR 5
MarengoDixons Mills101.572163.464 SR 10 – Butler, Pine Hill
Linden118.131190.113 SR 69 south – NanafaliaSouthern end of SR 69 concurrency
119.477192.280 SR 28 east (East Coats Avenue) – ThomastonSouthern end of SR 28 concurrency
119.890192.944 SR 28 west (Cahaba Avenue) – LivingstonNorthern end of SR 28 concurrency
Providence122.423197.021 SR 69 north – GreensboroNorthern end of SR 69 concurrency
Demopolis134.323216.172 US 80 east (SR 8) – FaunsdaleSouthern end of US 80/SR 8 concurrency
135.275217.704 US 80 west (SR 8) – MeridianNorthern end of US 80/SR 8 concurrency
Marengo–Greene
county line		​William Rufus King BridgeCrossing of Black Warrior River
GreeneEutaw160.423258.176 SR 14 east (Greensboro Street) – GreensboroSouthern end of SR 14 concurrency
160.710258.638 US 11 south (SR 7 / Boligee Street) – LivingstonSouthern end of US 11/SR 7 concurrency
160.946259.017 SR 14 west (Tuscaloosa Street)Northern end of SR 14 concurrency
​173.626279.424 I‑20 / I‑59 – Meridian, TuscaloosaDiamond interchange; I-20/I-59 exit 52
TuscaloosaTuscaloosa194.287312.675 I‑359 south / SR 69 south / US 11 north (SR 7) – Birmingham, GreensboroNorthern end of US 11/SR 7 concurrency; southern end of SR 69 concurrency; I-359 exit 2
Tuscaloosa–Northport lineHugh R. Thomas BridgeCrossing of the Black Warrior River
Northport5th StreetInterchange
197.139317.264 US 82 east (SR 6 / McFarland Boulevard) / SR 69 north – DuncanvilleSouthern end of US 82/SR 6 concurrency; northern end of SR 69 concurrency
198.093318.800 US 82 west (SR 6 / McFarland Boulevard) – ColumbusNorthern end of US 82/SR 6 concurrency
200.192322.178 SR 171 north – FayetteSouthern terminus of SR 171
Fayette​226.727364.882 SR 13 north / SR 18 east – Eldridge, BerryNorthern end of SR 13 concurrency; southern end of signed segment of SR 13; southern end of SR 18 concurrency
Fayette240.217386.592 SR 18 west (Columbus Street East) / SR 171 south (2nd Avenue Southeast)Northern end of SR 18 concurrency; southern end of SR 171 concurrency
​246.256396.311 SR 129 north – Glen AllenSouthern terminus of SR 129
​247.233397.883 SR 102 eastWestern terminus of SR 102
MarionWinfield260.526419.276 SR 118 east (Bankhead Highway) / SR 253 north – Jasper, TwinSouthern end of SR 118 concurrency; southern terminus of SR 253
Guin266.701429.214 SR 44 east (7th Street) – TwinWestern terminus of SR 44
267.066429.801 US 278 west (SR 74) / SR 118 west / SR 142 west – SulligentSouthern end of US 278/SR 74 concurrency; northern end of SR 118 concurrency; eastern terminus of SR 142
Hamilton275.428443.258 I‑22 / US 78 / SR 4 – Tupelo, BirminghamDiamond interchange; I-22/US 78/SR 4 exit 16
280.185450.914 SR 17 south / SR 171 endsSouthern end of SR 17 concurrency; northern end of SR 171 concurrency; northern terminus of SR 171
280.517451.448 US 278 east (SR 74 / Bexar Avenue) – Natural BridgeNorthern end of US 278/SR 74 concurrency
​285.822459.986 SR 187 north – HodgesSouthern terminus of SR 187
Hackleburg294.323473.667 SR 172 / SR 253 north (Clay Street) – Bear Creek, HodgesSouthern terminus of SR 253
Franklin​304.307489.735 SR 13 south (A.W. Todd Memorial Highway) – Haleyville, The Upper Bear Creek DamSouthern end of SR 13 concurrency
Russellville310.871500.298 SR 24 south to SR 243 – Red Bay, Double Springs, MoultonParclo interchange
ColbertTuscumbia–Muscle Shoals line327.903527.709
US 72 west / US 72 Alt. east / SR 20 east (SR 2 / Lee Highway) – Corinth, Decatur		Western terminus of US 72 Alt.; southern end of US 72/SR 2 and SR 20 concurrencies
Muscle Shoals–Sheffield line331.231533.065 SR 184 east (East 2nd Street)Western terminus of SR 184
Colbert–Lauderdale
county line		​O'Neal BridgeCrossing of Tennessee River
LauderdaleFlorence333.658536.971 SR 20 west (Coffee Road)Interchange; northern end of SR 20 concurrency; no access from SR 20 to US 43 north/US 72 east/SR 13 north/SR 17 north
335.496539.928 SR 17 north (Helton Drive) / SR 157 – Muscle Shoals, Waynesboro, TnInterchange; northern end of SR 17 concurrency
337.819543.667 SR 133 (Cox Creek Parkway)
​342.215550.742 US 72 east (SR 2 / Lee Highway) – Rogersville, AthensNorthern end of US 72/SR 2 concurrency
​347.747559.645 CR 364 west / SR 64 east – LexingtonEastern terminus of CR 364; western terminus of SR 64
Alabama–Tennessee state line353.077
0.000		568.222
0.000		Northern terminus of SR 13 in Alabama
Southern terminus of unsigned SR 6 in Tennessee
TennesseeLawrenceSaint Joseph SR 227 west (Iron City Road) – Iron CitySouthern end of SR 227 concurrency
Loretto SR 227 east (East Main Street)Northern end of SR 227 concurrency
Leoma SR 98 south (Rabbit Trail Road) – BonnertownNorthern terminus of SR 98
Lawrenceburg US 64 (SR 15 / Lawrenceburg Highway) – Waynesboro, PulaskiInterchange

US 64 Bus. (Gaines Street)
EthridgeJason Jackson Memorial BridgeCrossing over Little Shoal Creek
​ SR 240 west (Monument Road) – Summertown, HohenwaldEastern terminus of SR 240
Maury​ SR 20 west – Summertown, HohenwaldEastern terminus of SR 20
​Judge Ed Workman BridgeCrossing of railroad tracks of CSX and Big Bigby Creek
Mount PleasantSpencer Holman Memorial BridgeCrossing of Big Bigby Creek
SR 243 north (South Main Street)Southern terminus of SR 243
SR 166 (1st Avenue) – Hampshire
SR 243 – Maury County AirportInterchange
AshwoodZion RoadInterchange
Columbia
US 412 west / US 412 Bus. east		Southern end of US 412/SR 99 concurrency; western terminus of US 412 Bus.
SR 50 (Williamsport Pike) – CentervilleInterchange
Industrial Park RoadInterchange
SR 7 (Santa Fe Pike) – Dickson, Santa FeInterchange
Rear Admiral Fran McKee Memorial BridgeCrossing of the Duck River

US 31 (SR 6 / Nashville Highway) / US 412 Bus. west / US 412 east (SR 99 / Bear Creek Pike) to I-65 – Spring Hill		Northern terminus of US 43; northern end of US 412/SR 99 and SR 6 concurrencies
1.000 mi = 1.609 km; 1.000 km = 0.621 mi

See also

References

  1. 1 2 "United States". Washington, D.C.: American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. 1989. p. 72. Retrieved October 1, 2016.
  2. ↑ State Road Map of Alabama (Map). General Drafting Company. 1933. Retrieved October 9, 2016.
  3. ↑ "State Road Map of Alabama". General Drafting Company. November 1, 1934. Retrieved October 9, 2016.
  4. ↑ Google (26 October 2016). "Route of US 43 in Mobile County" (Map). Google Maps. Google. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
  5. ↑ Google (26 October 2016). "Route of US 43 in Washington County" (Map). Google Maps. Google. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
  6. ↑ Google (26 October 2016). "Route of US 43 in Clarke County" (Map). Google Maps. Google. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
  7. ↑ Google (26 October 2016). "Route of US 43 in Marengo County" (Map). Google Maps. Google. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
  8. ↑ Google (26 October 2016). "Route of US 43 in Greene County" (Map). Google Maps. Google. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
  9. ↑ Google (26 October 2016). "Route of US 43 in Tuscaloosa County" (Map). Google Maps. Google. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
  10. ↑ Google (26 October 2016). "Route of US 43 in Fayette County" (Map). Google Maps. Google. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
  11. ↑ Google (26 October 2016). "Route of US 43 in Marion County" (Map). Google Maps. Google. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
  12. ↑ Google (26 October 2016). "Route of US 43 in Franklin County" (Map). Google Maps. Google. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
  13. ↑ Google (26 October 2016). "Route of US 43 in Colbert County" (Map). Google Maps. Google. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
  14. ↑ Google (26 October 2016). "Route of US 43 in Lauderdale County" (Map). Google Maps. Google. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
  15. ↑ Google (26 October 2016). "Route of US 43 in Lawrence County" (Map). Google Maps. Google. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
  16. ↑ Google (26 October 2016). "Route of US 43 in Maury County" (Map). Google Maps. Google. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
  17. ↑ National Highway System: Alabama (PDF) (Map). Federal Highway Administration. March 25, 2015. Retrieved October 2, 2016.
  18. ↑ National Highway System: Mobile, AL (PDF) (Map). Federal Highway Administration. March 25, 2015. Retrieved October 2, 2016.
  19. ↑ National Highway System: Tuscaloosa, AL (PDF) (Map). Federal Highway Administration. March 25, 2015. Retrieved October 2, 2016.
  20. ↑ National Highway System: Florence, AL (PDF) (Map). Federal Highway Administration. March 25, 2015. Retrieved October 2, 2016.
  21. ↑ National Highway System: Tennessee (PDF) (Map). Federal Highway Administration. May 10, 2016. Retrieved October 2, 2016.
  22. ↑ "Study of US 43 Corridor Between I-20/I-59 near Eutaw to I-65 at Mobile". Planning. Technical & Analytical Papers. Washington, D.C.: Federal Highway Administration. December 2003. p. 72. Retrieved October 1, 2016.
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