The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has announced updates on the ongoing construction of the Sanibel Causeway. Traffic has been transitioned to the permanent lanes, and the surrounding causeway islands remain an active work zone, closed to public access by land or water.
Key Updates and Scheduled Activities
East of the Toll Plaza
- Underground Drainage Completion: Crews expect to finish the underground drainage crossing this week. By Dec. 20, two westbound lanes on McGregor Boulevard will be open to traffic. Currently, both directions are shifted to the south side of the road, approximately 1/2 mile from Shell Point Boulevard to west of Port Comfort Road.
- Port Comfort Traffic: Westbound drivers heading to Port Comfort can proceed straight and turn right to access the area.
- Guardrail Restoration: Starting Dec. 20, one eastbound lane will be closed from the toll plaza to Shell Point for crews to restore guardrail and asphalt along the shoulder.
- Daytime Lane Closures: Temporary lane closures will occur in both directions on McGregor Boulevard between Shell Point and Punta Rassa Road as crews move equipment and materials.
West of the Toll Plaza
- Barrier Wall Removal: Crews will begin dismantling the barrier wall along the Causeway Islands in preparation for the final asphalt layer. Public access to the Causeway Islands Park remains closed.
- Pedestrian Safety: Lee County is installing a temporary post and rope system to guide pedestrian traffic during the reconstruction of recreational facilities on the Causeway Islands.
- Construction Activity at Staging Area: Expect intermittent traffic stops near the staging area entrance as materials and equipment are moved across the road.
- Armor Stone Placement: Crews are placing armor stones near the south side of the road by the toll plaza.
- Westbound Merge Adjustment: The westbound merge point is located west of the toll plaza. Drivers should follow the 20 mph speed limit and remain alert for construction vehicles and equipment.
- U-Turn Work: Construction continues near the off-island U-turn under Span A.
Motorist and Cyclist Advisory
- Expect slower travel times due to the presence of oversized vehicles aiding island recovery efforts.
- Cyclists are encouraged to use alternate transportation to cross the causeway.
- Pedestrians are prohibited on the causeway.
Safety Reminder
Motorists are urged to obey the 20 mph speed limit throughout the construction zone and exercise patience as crews work to complete the project.
For further details and project updates, visit www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway.
