Frequently Asked Questions
Will construction affect
vehicular and boat traffic?
The project will attempt to minimize impacts to both marine and vehicular traffic.
The goal of the traffic control
plan is to maintain the existing number of lanes open
throughout construction. Boat traffic will also be
maintained at all times.
How long will
construction take?
The current construction time
estimate is approximately 3 years.
What will happen to the existing
bridge?
The existing bridge will be
demolished and removed. The Department will evaluate the
feasibility of using some portions of the existing
bridge as an artificial reef.
How was the new bridge selected?
The PD&E Study considered several alternatives, including low and mid level movable bridges and a fixed high level bridge. These bridge types were analyzed with several horizontal alignment options. The preferred alternative was finalized upon receipt of
Location and Design Concept Acceptance (LDCA) by the Federal Highway Administration
on May 12, 2009. All evaluated
alternatives can be reviewed under the PD&E tab in this website.
What is the total cost of the
project?
The current construction cost estimate includes replacement of the Intracoastal and
Tide Relief bridges, adjacent
roadway and causeway improvements and is approximately
$66,000,000.
What is the status of the
project?
The project is currently under Final Design. Construction
Documents will be ready for contractor bidding by late 2013. Construction is
scheduled to begin in mid 2014.