The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has announced a significant milestone in the ongoing Sanibel Causeway project. Traffic has now been redirected to the permanent lanes, marking a major step forward in the construction process. However, the surrounding causeway islands, including the areas near the temporary roadway, remain active work zones and are strictly off-limits to public access, both from land and water.
WEST FROM TOLL PLAZA
- Wildlife Alert: Protected beach-nesting birds are currently inhabiting the Causeway Islands. Motorists are urged to slow down and remain vigilant, as these birds may be flying near the roadway.
- Intermittent Traffic Stops: Drivers should anticipate occasional traffic stops at the staging area entrance as construction crews move equipment across McGregor Boulevard to the south side.
- Ongoing Construction: Earthwork and debris removal continue along the Causeway Islands. Construction vehicles may occasionally enter or leave the travel lanes as needed, but efforts are being made to minimize disruptions during peak hours.
- Westbound Merge: The merge point for westbound traffic is now located just west of the toll plaza. Drivers are advised to proceed with caution and adhere to the reduced speed limit of 20 mph. Construction vehicles and equipment will frequently enter and exit the staging area near this location.
- Span A U-turn: Construction work is also ongoing in the vicinity of the off-island U-turn under Span A.
EAST FROM TOLL PLAZA
- Daytime Lane Closures: Temporary lane closures on McGregor Boulevard, both eastbound and westbound, are in effect from Shell Point Boulevard to Punta Rassa Road. These closures allow crews to clear the median in preparation for an upcoming traffic shift in August.
- Traffic Reduction: Starting August 16, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction on McGregor Boulevard for about a half-mile stretch from Shell Point to west of Port Comfort Road. Traffic will shift as crews work on underground pipe reconstruction, with this arrangement expected to last approximately six months.
- Eastbound Lane Closure: One eastbound lane will continue from the toll plaza to Shell Point Road along the south side of McGregor. The shoulder on the south side remains closed as crews install marine mattresses to reinforce the shoreline. This closure is expected to remain in place through early fall.
With many oversized vehicles using the causeway for island recovery efforts, motorists should expect slower travel times. Cyclists are advised to use alternative transportation methods, and pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway during this time. Drivers are reminded to obey the 20 mph speed limit throughout the work zone.
For additional details about the project, visit www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway
