The US$398.5 million project includes design and construction of new westbound and eastbound bridges on Route 30 (US 98) to replace the existing three-mile-long bridge that links the communities of Pensacola and Gulf Breeze. The project also includes shared-use paths on the outside of each bridge, reconstruction of the bridge approaches, and improvements to public facilities in the Gulf Breeze Wayside Park.
The new bridge is intended to be an iconic structure that increases capacity, driver safety and offers an unmatched pedestrian experience, encouraging walkers and cyclists to explore and enjoy the journey from shore-to-shore. At night, the bridge will provide a ribbon of light across the bay.
The bridge will feature a wishbone tied arch main span. The arches are designed to maximise the visual impact from all perspectives and provide a durable, easily maintained structure. The architectural details of the tower- supported shade structures and piers mimic the arch’s wishbone, providing aesthetically pleasing views from both the low- and high-level portions of the bridge. Lighting, railings, surface finishes and other details are detailed to accentuate the architecture.
Construction on the project is expected to begin in the spring of 2017 with completion scheduled for the summer of 2020.
