FORT MYERS, Fla. – The full closure of the Caloosahatchee River Bridge will end late Sunday night, August 11, 2024, just in time for the start of the school year. Beginning Monday, August 12, the bridge will reopen, with one lane open for southbound traffic and both lanes open for northbound traffic. However, crews will intermittently close one lane northbound only when needed during the day or night. Refer to the attached graphic for the traffic configuration. Motorists should anticipate nighttime closures from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. throughout the remainder of the project, including weekends. Digital traffic boards near the bridge will display travel times and alternative routes. Lee County’s Traffic Operations Center will monitor signals in real time and coordinate with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for any necessary adjustments.

The 10-week full bridge closure marked the completion of Phase I, which included replacing the bridge deck, installing a median barrier wall, and adding a guardrail on the northbound side. This accelerated the project by 416 days, bringing it ahead of schedule. FDOT aims to complete the entire project by late December 2024 or early January 2025, instead of 2026.

As Phase II begins, crews will construct a sidewalk on the southbound side of the bridge, including a pedestrian barrier wall. This phase will also involve connecting sidewalks along the loop ramp to First Street and at North Shore Park, replacing the overhead sign structure, upgrading lighting to LED, performing signal work, and milling and resurfacing each end of the bridge.

Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to plan accordingly. Consider leaving early, mapping out alternate routes, carpooling, and checking the Florida Department of Transportation’s FL511.com app for traffic updates.

This project is made possible through the support and partnership of the City of Fort Myers and Lee County officials. Their collaboration has been essential in adding a sidewalk to the Caloosahatchee River Bridge, enhancing safety for pedestrians and cyclists who rely on the bridge for their daily commute. This sidewalk not only addresses safety concerns but also contributes to a more connected and vibrant community.

For more information and to view improvement plans, visit [SWFL Roads Project](https://www.swflroads.com/project/449015-1) or call the project hotline at 239-387-0115.

Below is a link to the drone footage taken on 08/06/2024 of the Caloosahatchee River Bridge. This video shows the median barrier wall completed.

 E1V60 Drone Flight 2024-08-06.MP4

***For media interviews, contact PIO Director, Janella Newsome.***