New Keys Bridge Opens Near Key Largo
May 27th, 2008
Key Largo, Florida Keys - A new $93-million Jewfish Creek Bridge, near the top of the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, opened Thursday helping enhance safety and scenic views for motorists.
The dedication of the 65-foot-high, 1.25-mile span also marked the halfway point of a six-year, $300 million project to build a new connector road, known as the “18-mile Stretch,” from the South Florida mainland to Key Largo and the Keys.
Only the northbound section of the bridge has opened, but traffic is flowing in both directions. The southbound section should open in October and the rest of the bridge project, including the dismantling of an antiquated drawbridge and the removal of a short land causeway, should be completed in 2009.
The new “18-mile Stretch” is designed to enhance vehicular safety as well as benefit the environment. About seven miles of the new road have been completed.
The road project features one travel lane in each direction, divided by a concrete median barrier.
“It’s something that we’ve been waiting for for years,” said Monroe County Sheriff Richard Roth. “That barrier is a great thing and we expect that to be one of our biggest lifesaving designs put into the highway.”
The median, as well as the bridge walls, are painted Belize blue, a color suggested by marine artist Wyland.
Other enhancements include outside shoulders and swales to prevent road pollutants from washing into Florida Bay; box culverts under the road to permit crossings for aquatic animals and elimination of the causeway that bisects Lake Surprise to restore natural water flow to Florida Bay.
The new road and bridge not only bolster vehicular safety, but also enhance the visual experience when driving to and from the Keys.
“Coming to the top of the Jewfish Creek Bridge, you’re going to see the spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Florida Bay,” said Jackie Harder, president of the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce. “Most importantly you’re REALLY going to be able to tell that you’re in the Florida Keys.”
More details on the Florida Keys are available on the destination’s Web site at www.fla-keys.com.
