New Belleair Bridge Has Gulf Views

Drivers using the new Belleair bridge now have a gulf view thanks to the higher elevation of the new structure.

The Belleair Beach Causeway Bridge opened to traffic on Friday, May 29. The sidewalks will remain closed to pedestrians through the completion of the project for public safety. Construction started in March 2007, and the $72.3 million infrastructure project is on time and on budget.

In addition to the new bridge- new storm drains, retaining walls, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, curbs and gutters, and a widened roadway are part of the project. Over the next few months, construction and demolition will continue with removal of the existing bridge and temporary roadway, completion of the south half of the relief bridge, building of a new boat ramp park, construction of retention and detention ponds, grading, paving, signing and pavement markings. Over 2 acres of seagrass beds will be enhanced to improve water quality and the marine habitat, and along the southern shore of the causeway, a new tidal wetland will be constructed as required by federal and state environmental agencies. The higher bridge elevation creates an acre of land with additional parking, accommodating trailers up to 45 feet.