The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has provided an update on the ongoing work on the Sanibel Causeway. Traffic has now been shifted to the permanent lanes, marking a significant milestone in the project. Please note that the causeway islands surrounding the temporary roadway remain an active construction zone and are closed to public access, including from the water.
East of the Toll Plaza:
- McGregor Boulevard Traffic Adjustments: Traffic on McGregor Boulevard is reduced to one lane in each direction for approximately a half-mile stretch from Shell Point Boulevard to just west of Port Comfort Road. Both directions are currently utilizing the north side of the roadway. Later this fall, traffic will shift to the south side, allowing crews to work on the north side. This shift is essential for reconstructing an underground pipe crossing. Expect one lane of travel in each direction to be maintained through early 2025.
- Daytime Lane Closures: Motorists should anticipate temporary daytime lane closures on McGregor Boulevard, both eastbound and westbound, from Shell Point to Punta Rassa Road. These closures will occur as crews move equipment and materials as needed.
- Eastbound Lane Closure: One eastbound lane remains open from the toll plaza to Shell Point on the south (beach) side of McGregor Boulevard. The shoulder on this side is fully closed to access as crews excavate and install marine mattresses to reinforce the shoreline. This closure is expected to continue through early fall.
West of the Toll Plaza:
- Protected Beach-Nesting Birds: The Causeway Islands are currently home to protected beach-nesting birds. Motorists are encouraged to slow down and remain vigilant, as birds may be flying close to the roadway.
- Equipment Crossings: Expect occasional traffic stops at the staging area entrance as equipment crosses the road with materials for work on the south side of McGregor.
- Ongoing Earthwork: Crews are continuing earthwork and debris removal along the Causeway Islands. Construction equipment may periodically enter or leave the travel lanes, with efforts made to minimize disruptions during peak hours.
- Westbound Merge Location: The westbound merge is situated west of the toll plaza. Motorists should exercise caution, adhere to the posted 20 mph speed limit, and be aware of construction vehicles and equipment entering or exiting the staging area near this location.
- Off-Island U-Turn Work: Crews are also working in the area of the off-island U-turn under Span A.
General Advisory:
With many oversized vehicles crossing the causeway to support recovery efforts on the island, travel may be slower than usual. Bicyclists are advised to consider alternative transportation options for crossing the causeway, and pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway at this time. All motorists are reminded to observe the posted 20 mph speed limit throughout the work zone.
Please be aware that while the above activities are scheduled, unforeseen underground conditions and weather may impact the project timeline.
For the latest information on the project, visit FDOT’s Sanibel Causeway Project page.
