Cow Key Channel Bridges Rehabilitation Project Continues
A rehabilitation project for Cow Key Channel Bridge(s) is expected to conclude by December 2020, according to Florida Department of Transportation officials.
The bridge, consisting of two parallel spans at mile marker 4.1, supports southbound (to Key West) and northbound (Key West to other areas of the Keys) vehicular traffic.
Work includes replacing portions of the bridges’ deck and beams, and is to be done on one bridge span at a time and all traffic to be routed along the parallel span. Project mandates call for all elements to be finalized by December 2020.
Motorists are advised to allow extra time while traveling to and from Key West, especially during peak morning and afternoon commuter time periods, and be mindful of workers and equipment in the area.
Construction information is available on FDOT’s website. Drivers can get real-time traffic information by calling 511 or visiting fl511.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the Cow Key Channel Bridges?
The Cow Key Channel Bridges are two parallel spans between Stock Island and Key West. Located at mile marker 4.1 on the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, they are the only route for motorists traveling between Key West and the other Florida Keys or mainland Florida.
Why is the rehabilitation project necessary?
Over time areas of the bridges have been corroded by saltwater. The rehabilitation project is necessary to maintain the bridges in a condition that provides optimal safety for motorists.
When does the rehabilitation project begin and end?
Construction is expected to conclude by December 2020.
What kind of work is being done?
The $6.2 million project consists of replacing sections of the bridges’ deck and beams, as well as repaving and restriping the roadway. In addition, utility companies must temporarily relocate their lines that run along the bridges.
Can motorists drive on the bridges during the construction project?
Yes! As of Friday, Sept. 25, 2020, all four lanes of traffic are open.
Pedestrians and bicyclists also are able to traverse the span using an open crosswalk.
How is traffic being routed to minimize inconvenience?
To make travel as convenient as possible, traffic may be shifted based on daily and weekly patterns.
Although some work continues, all four lanes of traffic are open as of Friday, Sept. 25, 2020.
What should motorists expect when entering or leaving Key West?
Workers and equipment will be present in the area so please be mindful of them.
Remaining work to be performed includes reconstructing the medians, installing landscaping and repaving and restriping the roadway.
Where can motorists get more information?
Get real-time traffic updates by calling 511 or visiting fl511.com, or download the Florida511 app from the App store or Google Play. For information about the bridges rehabilitation project, visit the Florida Department of Transportation’s website.
View FDOT traffic camera on U.S. 1 at mile marker 5.3
