MATLACHA, Fla. – To our valued community, we are pleased to share regular updates on the ongoing construction of the Pine Island Bridge and the steps being taken to accelerate the project. We are committed to delivering this critical infrastructure as quickly as possible while ensuring quality and safety remain top priorities.

Hurricane Ian caused significant destruction in Pine Island and Matlacha. Our goal is to enhance safety, strengthen resilience, and reduce economic impacts for the community.

The new Little Pine Island Bridge is being built to withstand storm surges from a Hurricane Ian-level event, ensuring this critical roadway remains intact.

Once completed, the new bridge will strengthen infrastructure, enhance transportation safety, and promote long-term economic growth in the area.

Phase 1 Update

 We aim to complete Phase 1 by Monday, April 7, 2025.

Construction crews have successfully poured the bridge deck and approaches.

Temporary barrier walls are being placed on the new bridge in preparation for the next phase.  

All that’s left for this phase is paving and striping the roadway and bridge. Once completed, construction crews will transition to Interim Phase 2 which includes the opening of two lanes.

Interim Phase 2

 Starting Monday, April 7, the eastbound lane on the old bridge will remain open, while a newly constructed westbound lane will be available on the new bridge, allowing two lanes of traffic to flow in both directions. This change is expected to reduce congestion; however, drivers should still anticipate possible delays.

Motorists are advised to remain in their designated lanes when approaching the bridge, as westbound drivers will no longer need to cross over as they did previously.

Also, construction crews will begin utility work across the newly constructed bridge.

 Phase 2

 A few weeks after two lanes of traffic open to the public, Phase 2 will begin, redirecting all traffic onto the newly built bridge, where vehicles will travel in both directions.

FDOT is committed to constructing a bridge that is built to last, capable of withstanding extreme loads and environmental stresses. Once completed, this structure will embody resilience and sustainability, ensuring it stands strong against future storms and serves the community safely for generations to come.

 Sign Up for Updates

We understand the importance of this bridge to the community and are dedicated to its timely completion. We thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to rebuild stronger and better than before.

To stay informed, motorists are encouraged to check FDOT’s traffic app at www.FL511.com for real-time updates. Live bridge camera feeds can be accessed at https://www.leegov.com/dot/traffic. To sign up for updates and access the weekly Road Watch, please visit the project website at 451937-2 Pine Island Causeway and Bridge Reconstruction Project. For further inquiries, contact the Communications Team at (239)-800-6391 or email pineislandinfo@exp.com.

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The Florida Department of Transportation’s mission is to provide a safe statewide transportation system that promotes the efficient movement of people and goods, supports the state’s economic competitiveness, prioritizes Florida’s environment and natural resources, and preserves the quality of life and connectedness of the state’s communities.