DUCK KEY BRIDGE REPLACEMENT UPDATES
DUCK KEY, FL — The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) inspectors advised that three interior Duck Key bridges that affect Harbour Island, Plantation Island, and Yacht Club Island are deteriorating faster than anticipated. Based on the results from the detailed analysis from FDOT, the following weight restrictions have been issued:
- Bimini Bridge: 10-ton weight limit
- Harbour Drive and Seaview bridges: 4-ton weight limit
The ratings for Harbour Drive and Seaview bridges are lower than the initial rapid analysis suggested. Signage has been replaced to notify residents and visitors of the change. County staff and design consultants are evaluating options to strengthen the two bridges for the interim period until replacement of the bridges can take place. The County is providing weight certifications for Duck Key vehicles at the Long Key transfer station at no cost.
The Bimini Bridge, constructed in 1955, was already scheduled for replacement. County staff accelerated the bidding process for the Bimini Bridge with bids due Nov. 24, 2020. The estimated contract period to complete the replacement is 18 months. The County approved a temporary one-lane bridge on the north side of the Bimini Bridge while the replacement is constructed. The temporary bridge will allow Florida legal weight limits to cross without a reduced weight load. Bimini Bridge affects Harbour, Plantation, and Yacht Club islands.
Active unexpired building permits affected by the weight limits on Bimini, Seaview, and Harbour Drive bridges will not be required to get inspections until 180 days after a solution for delivery of materials is available. If someone with an open permit is able to proceed by other means before that time, they may do so.
Emergency services are not affected by the bridge weight limits.
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