The new State Road A1A North Causeway Bridge in St. Lucie County is set to open by 8 a.m. on Friday, May 15, weather permitting, according to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). The new A1A causeway bridge replaces the aging drawbridge over the Intracoastal Waterway and is a high-level fixed bridge that will not need to open for marine traffic. For a comprehensive progress update on the S.R. A1A North Causeway Bridge in Fort Pierce, visit the latest report.
Fixed Bridge Eliminates Drawbridge Stops
Unlike the old drawbridge, the new structure will not lift for boats. Large vessels will be able to pass underneath without interrupting traffic above. This means fewer stops for drivers traveling between S.R. A1A and U.S. 1.
The bridge spans the Florida East Coast Railway (FEC Railway), Old Dixie Highway, and the Intracoastal Waterway, creating a connection through the area. In addition to improved traffic flow, the project is part of broader efforts to upgrade local infrastructure, such as the FDOT-certified sidewalk projects in St. Lucie County.
Design Features for Drivers, Cyclists, and Pedestrians
The bridge includes one lane in each direction, wide buffered bike lanes, protected sidewalks, and shared-use paths. An observation deck is located beneath the west side of the structure.
Several nearby roadway upgrades are also part of the project, including new access roads, extended streets, and added connections that tie into the East Coast Greenway. For more details on the ongoing development, check out the latest construction updates for the North Causeway Bridge.
Ongoing Construction and Closures
When the bridge opens, some bicycle lanes, shared-use paths on the north side, and the observation deck will remain closed while construction continues. Pedestrians will be directed to the sidewalk on the south side of the bridge.
The old drawbridge will be permanently closed to vehicles and eventually demolished. Final project work is expected to continue into late 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions About the A1A Causeway Bridge
When does the new bridge open?
The new State Road A1A North Causeway Bridge is set to open by 8 a.m. on Friday, May 15, weather permitting.
Will the new bridge lift for boats?
No. Unlike the old drawbridge, the new high-level fixed bridge will not need to open for marine traffic. Large boats can pass underneath without interrupting traffic above.
What features does the bridge include for cyclists and pedestrians?
The bridge includes wide buffered bike lanes, protected sidewalks, shared-use paths, and an observation deck beneath the west side of the structure.
What happens to the old drawbridge?
The old drawbridge will be permanently closed to vehicles and eventually demolished.
Are there any areas that will remain closed after the bridge opens?
Some bicycle lanes, shared-use paths on the north side, and the observation deck will remain closed while construction continues. Pedestrians will be directed to the sidewalk on the south side.
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