Big Carlos Pass Bridge closes temporarily for final construction touches

The Big Carlos Pass Bridge was closed Wednesday night from 9 to 11 p.m. after temporary lane changes from 8 to 9 p.m. as crews completed final touches on the three-year-long bridge reconstruction project by the Lee County Department of Transportation. "We're just happy to see it. We just took a drive over. We said, let's see what's happening with the bridge. We thought it'd be done, and it was pretty much done," said Andrea Morelli, a seasonal resident from Chicago, Illinois. The Florida Highway Patrol blocked the road and controlled traffic through lane closures while crews removed some of the road markings. Drivers shared their excitement about the islands building back better despite detours. "We went through Ian, and we had to stay with friends over here in Bonita, and the bridge was even out at that time, so we had to go all the way around. So we watched it slowly come back. And now we're thrilled with the way it looks," Morelli said. The project, which is expected to be completed in two weeks, connects Lovers Key to the south end of Fort Myers Beach. The new bridge features a higher clearance of 60 feet, along with sidewalks and bike lanes. Sections of the old bridge were repurposed to create an artificial reef nearby. "Easier to drive, easier to see what's coming at you, what's behind you. I love the way it's set up," Morelli said. Lee County will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, June 30, at 9:30 a.m. to celebrate the completion of the bridge and its significance for Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs. It will be located in the shade underneath the south side of the bridge. There will also be a live stream for those who cannot attend in person. 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.