New Howard Frankland Bridge Set to Open for Commuters

Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

The new Howard Frankland Bridge is set for opening on March 25, 2024.

News Summary

Tampa Bay residents rejoice! The new Howard Frankland Bridge is set to open on March 25, 2024, enhancing connectivity between Hillsborough and Pinellas counties. The bridge features eight lanes, including express options, and a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle pathway. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on March 24, marking the transition in traffic directions. This long-awaited upgrade will significantly improve daily commutes while including safety features designed to withstand storms and corrosion.

Exciting News for Tampa and St. Petersburg: New Howard Frankland Bridge to Open Soon!

Mark your calendars, Tampa Bay residents! The stunning new Howard Frankland Bridge is set to welcome commuters on Tuesday morning, March 25, 2024. This big, beautiful structure is part of the vital Interstate 275 and will significantly boost connectivity between Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, making it a reason to celebrate!

Joining the Celebration

On the eve of its grand opening, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will host a festive ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 24 at 10 a.m. It promises to be a delightful occasion that’ll usher in a new era of travel for the daily commuters of our bustling region.

All About the Bridge

Let’s dive into what makes this bridge so special! The new Howard Frankland Bridge stretches a substantial 5.8 miles and accommodates eight lanes total! That means there will be four general-use lanes and four express lanes. Now, two of these express lanes will have tolls, while the other two will be available for northbound traffic without a fee, giving commuters some options while they navigate the roads.

Turning Traffic Directions

As an exciting twist, once the new bridge is open, the existing southbound bridge – which has been around since the 1990s – will be transformed into new northbound lanes! Expect traffic directions to change overnight between March 24 and March 25, 2024, creating a notable transition for drivers in the area.

Planning Ahead

To facilitate these changes, it’s important to note that there will be entrance ramp closures from southbound State Road 60, westbound State Road 60, and George Bean Parkway starting at 11 p.m. on March 24. They will remain closed until 6 a.m. the next morning, so make sure you plan accordingly to avoid any last-minute surprises!

A Bridge with a Long Future Ahead

The original northbound bridge, which opened its doors in 1960, is scheduled to be demolished in the spring of 2026. The new bridge, built with longevity in mind, boasts a projected lifespan of 100 years thanks to modern construction techniques and materials. You can rest easy knowing that your travels are in good hands!

Accessibility for All

But wait, there’s more! The project design includes a dedicated bicycle and pedestrian pathway, separate from road traffic. This thoughtful addition is under construction and is expected to open by spring 2025, ensuring that everyone can enjoy safe travels in our lovely area.

Enhancing Safety and Efficiency

For the 250,000 drivers who cross the current bridge daily, the new structure is a much-anticipated upgrade. With enhanced safety features, higher elevation to minimize storm damage, and wider concrete barriers to protect against saltwater corrosion, the new Howard Frankland Bridge is truly built to withstand the elements.

Building a Marvel

Did you know that this massive project involved the installation of over 3,000 concrete piles, 494 footings, 494 columns, and 224 caps across 112 piers? That’s a lot of hard work going into the most ambitious bridge project in the area!

The Culmination of Progress

The entire project, including the demolition of the old bridge, is set for completion in 2026. With all these advancements coming to life, it’s clear that the new Howard Frankland Bridge will pave the way for a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable commute for everyone in Tampa Bay. So, let’s get ready for a bright and connected future!