The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has provided an update on the ongoing reconstruction of the Sanibel Causeway. Traffic has been shifted to permanent lanes, while the surrounding causeway islands remain an active work zone closed to public access, including water access.
Key Updates and Scheduled Activities
East from Toll Plaza
- Traffic Shift on McGregor Boulevard
- Both directions of traffic have shifted to the south side of McGregor Boulevard from Shell Point Boulevard to Port Comfort Road.
- Westbound traffic to Port Comfort may continue straight, turning right as needed.
- This shift allows contractors to reconstruct the underground pipe crossing on the north side.
- McGregor will remain one lane in each direction through early 2025.
- Shoulder Closures and Shoreline Reinforcement
- The eastbound shoulder (beach side) of McGregor is closed. Crews are completing sand placement and replacing the barrier wall with barrels.
- Both eastbound lanes are expected to reopen by the end of the year.
- Temporary Lane Closures
- Expect daytime lane closures (both eastbound and westbound) between Shell Point and Punta Rassa Road as crews move equipment and materials.
West from Toll Plaza
- Barrier Wall Removal
- Crews are removing the barrier wall along the Causeway Islands to prepare for final asphalt paving. The Causeway Islands Park remains closed.
- Pedestrian Delineation
- Lee County is installing a post-and-rope system to delineate pedestrian areas during the reconstruction of recreational facilities.
- Construction Activity
- Crews are working on:
- Armor stone placement near the south side of the toll plaza.
- Sod installation for roadway stabilization.
- Earth grading and debris removal.
- Construction equipment will periodically enter and exit travel lanes, with interruptions minimized during peak hours.
- Crews are working on:
- Westbound Merge and Speed Limits
- The westbound merge location is west of the toll plaza.
- Motorists must obey the 20 mph speed limit. Construction vehicles are active near the staging area.
- U-turn Under Span A
- Work continues on the off-island U-turn under Span A.
Safety and Travel Advisories
- Oversized Vehicles: Many large vehicles are crossing to support island recovery efforts. Expect slower travel times.
- Bicyclists and Pedestrians: Bicyclists are advised to use alternative transportation, and pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway.
- Speed Limit: Motorists must obey the posted 20 mph speed limit throughout the work zone.
Project Information
For additional details about the project, visit the official site:
www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway
Patience and caution are appreciated as crews work diligently to complete this important reconstruction.
