FDOT to add pedestrian pathway to Caloosahatchee Bridge

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Caloosahatchee Bridge
Caloosahatchee Bridge. Credit: WINK

Despite the apparent danger, the Caloosahatchee Bridge has seen pedestrians walking and biking alongside vehicle traffic.

The solution? Add a sidewalk across the bridge.

The Florida Department of Transportation is set to begin constructing a pathway alongside the Caloosahatchee Bridge to improve pedestrian safety.

FDOT will install an 8-foot-long side bridge and side railings to connect the two bridge decks in the center with a single median barrier and restriping the lanes. 

“As cars are just whizzing by there’s no barrier for protection, nor is there a sidewalk,” said Janella Newsome, the director of public information for FDOT.

According to FDOT, existing sidewalks north and south of the bridge structure create safe access for pedestrians to cross.

Motorists should expect single-lane closures during the peak off-season, which according to FDOT, will be from mid-April to mid-December.

“FDOT has strict restrictions in the contract to ensure lanes are open during the peak seasons, that’s December to April,” said Newsome.

No lane closures will take place between the hours of 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM. 

A construction open house is scheduled to discuss the project in detail with the public.

All members of the public are invited to join this meeting, which is set to begin on March 13 at 5 p.m. and continue until 7 p.m., located at the Collaboratory, multi-purpose room 2031 Jackson St. in Fort Myers.

For more information regarding this project, click here.

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