WASHINGTON - The Cahaba River, one of Alabama's most scenic resources, will be even more prominent to the public thanks to new highway signage, said Congressman Spencer Bachus (AL-6).

         Five new signs directing visitors to key access points along a portion of the Cahaba River in Bibb County have been posted along I-59 and other high-visibility locations.  The installation of the signage, which was sought by Bachus and State Representative Cam Ward, was completed by the State Transportation Department on Thursday.

        "The signage will draw more attention to the Cahaba River's natural beauty and outstanding recreational opportunities," Congressman Bachus said.  "It's a way to bring more attention to the Cahaba, and to help visitors more easily find key points along the river for recreation and pleasure."

        "With tourism becoming such a high priority for Bibb County, these signs will showcase all that the community has to offer," said Representative Ward.

         The new highway signs are located at the following sites:

• Two signs, I-59, approaching Exit 97, both northbound and southbound
• Two signs, at the end of the Exit 97 ramps, at the turnoff to SR #5
• One sign at the intersection of SR#5 and US#11 southbound

         Bachus is the author of legislation that created the Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge.  Last year, he authored a bill signed into law by President Bush that will double the size of the nature refuge, expanding it by 3600 acres.  The Cahaba is Alabama's longest free-flowing river, and is considered one of the most ecologically and biologically diverse rivers in the nation.