The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has announced significant progress on the Sanibel Causeway project, with traffic now redirected to the permanent lanes. The causeway islands adjacent to the temporary roadway remain active construction zones and are off-limits to the public, including water access.
Important Notices for Motorists:
West of the Toll Plaza:
- Protected Wildlife: The Causeway Islands are home to protected beach-nesting birds. Drivers are urged to reduce speed and stay alert as these birds may fly close to the roadway.
- Traffic Interruptions: Expect intermittent traffic stops near the staging area entrance as construction equipment crosses the road with materials for work on the south side of McGregor Boulevard.
- Ongoing Construction: Earthwork and debris removal are ongoing. Construction vehicles may periodically enter and exit the travel lanes, especially during non-peak hours.
- Westbound Merge: The merge point is located west of the toll plaza. Motorists should proceed with caution, adhere to the 20 mph speed limit, and be aware of construction vehicles entering and exiting near this location.
- U-Turn Area: Crews continue to work around the off-island U-turn under Span A.
East of the Toll Plaza:
- Lane Reductions: Starting August 16, traffic on McGregor Boulevard will be reduced to one lane in each direction for about half a mile, from Shell Point Boulevard to west of Port Comfort Road. This change will last approximately three months as crews work on reconstructing an underground pipe crossing. Traffic will later shift to the south side for the remaining work, expected to last another three months.
- Temporary Lane Closures: Daytime lane closures are planned on McGregor Boulevard, both eastbound and westbound, from Shell Point to Punta Rassa Road. These closures are necessary to clear the median in preparation for the traffic shift scheduled for August 16.
- Eastbound Travel Restrictions: Eastbound traffic from the toll plaza to Shell Point will continue in one lane on the south (beach) side of McGregor. The south side shoulder remains closed for ongoing excavation and installation of marine mattresses to reinforce the shoreline. This closure is expected to last through early fall.
Additional Advisory:
With numerous oversized vehicles supporting recovery efforts on the island, travel may be slower than usual. Cyclists are advised to use alternative transportation, and pedestrians are prohibited from accessing the causeway. All motorists should strictly adhere to the 20 mph speed limit within the work zone.
FDOT also reminds everyone that the construction schedule is subject to change due to unforeseen underground conditions and weather.
For more detailed information about the project, visit www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway
