Bridge closure causing long traffic delays
Wilson Pigott Bridge expected to remain closed for 10 days
The temporary closure of the Wilson Pigott Bridge on State Road 31 leading into Fort Myers caused long traffic delays during both morning and afternoon drive times today.
The closure of the bridge for deck replacement began Monday with the structure to remain fully closed to all vehicular traffic for approximately 10 days.
Throughout the closure, no passenger vehicles, commercial trucks, buses, or delivery vehicles are permitted to cross the bridge.
The closure will allow for crews to install a new grid deck, as the repairs are essential, officials said.
As of this morning, the new deck was scheduled to arrive on site shortly and crews were expected to begin removing the existing deck so installation of the new grid lock could begin this evening.
Motorists are advised to allow for significant additional travel time, saying a 20-30 commute could take an hour or more.
The detour will be via Interstate 75 to cross the Caloosahatchee. To go northbound, motorists are asked to take I-75 northbound to Exit 143, State Road 78, travel east on SR 78 to SR 31, and head north on SR 31 to Babcock Ranch. If heading southbound, take SR 31 south to SR 78, travel west on SR 78 to 1-75 and head south on I-75.
Businesses that are south of the bridge will remain open and will be accessible by SR 31 from SR 80.
The emergency services – fire rescue, law enforcement, EMS – will be positioned strategically north of the bridge to maintain response times.
To manage traffic flow and minimize delays along the detour route, FDOT is working closely with Lee County regarding signal timing adjustments at key intersections of Bayshore Road and I-75 and Nalle Road and Bayshore Road, officials said.
During the construction, marine travel will remain open, as the bridge will maintain navigational access that will provide approximately 40-50 feet of clearance for vessels.
Individuals are encouraged to stay informed by visiting FL511.com, or by using the FL511 mobile app.
To reach MEGHAN BRADBURY, please email news@breezenewspapers.com,