The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) says that it is ready to move forward with a phased reopening of the Pensacola Bay Bridge.
Starting in March 2021, FDOT will begin the first phase of the reopening of the Pensacola Bay Bridge (also known as Three Mile Bridge), which was heavily damaged after it was struck by barges during Hurricane Sally in September 2020.
As part of the first phase, two lanes of traffic (one in each direction) will be open for the first 4,000 feet on the Pensacola side. The remaining approximate two miles of the bridge will be open to four lanes of traffic (two in each direction). During this initial phase, the speed limit will be temporarily set at 35 mph and emergency refuge areas will be available on the bridge.
From FDOT:
“To quickly clear travel lanes following vehicle incidents, assist drivers in the event of mechanical breakdowns, and keep the bridge free of debris, FDOT’s Road Ranger Service Patrol will be stationed on each end of the bridge from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. on weekends and major holidays. At other times, at least one unit will be on- call and available. Law enforcement will also be on sight 24-hours a day on both ends of thebridge to alert drivers about the temporary restrictions.“
The second reopening phase is expected to be completed by Memorial Day and will involve reopening the remaining 4,000 feet of the bridge to four lanes of traffic.
“FDOT understands that this has been a tough time for Pensacola and Gulf Breeze residents and has been laser-focused on reconnecting these communities as safely and quickly as possible,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Kevin J. Thibault, P.E. “We will continue to work with the contractor to ensure the final repairs are completed by Memorial Day and at a superior level of quality so it may serve these communities for decades to come.”
Click here for more information from FDOT.