Test openings set for Matlacha Drawbridge

MATLACHA, Fla. —

The first mechanical opening of the Matlacha Drawbridge is set for this week.

According to Lee County, test openings are expected from Tuesday through Thursday during daylight. It will be the first time the bridge has been open since 2022, when it was damaged by Hurricane Ian.

Crews will test the drawbridge, and the time to wait for it to open and close will mirror a normal wait, the county said.

Testing of the bridge will include using traffic signals, span openings, raising and lowering traffic arms and barrier gates. The county asks drivers to follow traffic signals and flagger directions.

When the testing period is done, bridge openings will take place four times a day for at least 60 days. After that, Lee County said the bridge will resume normal operations for requested openings.

This is all part of the Matlacha Drawbridge rehabilitation project. The project includes repairing and replacing electrical, mechanical and structural components of the bridge, including repairing the bridge tender structure, according to the county.

The Federal Highway Administration and the State of Florida are funding the construction of the improvements, while Lee County is funding inspection and engineering work. To learn more, click here.

DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.