Lee County marked a significant milestone in its recovery from Hurricane Ian. Friday morning, for the first time, cars are allowed to drive over the new Big Carlos Pass Bridge.
The bridge connects Fort Myers Beach to Lover’s Key State Park, a vital link for residents and visitors alike.
The bridge features a 60-foot navigational clearance, providing more space for boaters.
Although cars can now use the bridge, Lee County has warned that it remains an active construction zone. Bicyclists and pedestrians should exercise caution while using the narrow sidewalk on the new bridge because it will not be in its final condition.
Aerial photos from October show the bridge’s construction progress. Crews are still working on the finishing touches.
Once complete, the bridge will include one travel lane in each direction, bicycle lanes, a six-foot sidewalk on the north side of Estero Boulevard, and a ten-foot-wide shared-use path on the south side.
Sam Lurie, a Fort Myers Beach resident, tried out the new bridge during his morning walk.
“It’s great to have it open,” said Lurie. “It’s an awesome bridge. It’s going to have nice bike lanes, good walking lanes, and even has observation areas on different parts of the bridge, so you don’t have to stand in traffic to get pictures and watch the dolphins.”
Colleen Weiglein, who lives nearby with her dog Lilo, said she came to the bridge Thursday evening to watch crews work in anticipation of the opening.
“We are very excited,” said Weiglein. “It turned out to be beautiful. There’s a lot of meanings and a lot of worry that it wasn’t going to add to the island, and we’re very excited.”
Construction on the Big Carlos Pass Bridge is expected to finish by summer. The bridge is expected to have a lifespan of 75 years.
Parking and bathrooms will be available on the other side.
The old bridge will be dismantled, and its pieces will be used to create an artificial reef.