FDOT outlines $11 million rehab for Dixie Highway (Old Roosevelt Bridge); brief closures, environmental protections planned

Florida Department of Transportation representatives told the Stuart City Commission on Sept. 8 that a planned rehabilitation of the Dixie Highway movable span (Old Roosevelt Bridge, bridge No. 8 90003) will replace sidewalk plates, repair welds and the fender system, upgrade electrical and mechanical controls, add maintenance access, and apply a protective three-coat inorganic zinc paint to extend the span’s service life.

“Together, these measures will extend the service life of the bridge,” the project engineer said during the presentation. The project manager, Lance Jones of FDOT, said the project management number is 450587-2 and placed the estimated construction cost at about $11,000,000.

Scope and user improvements: Engineers said the work will include replacing the existing open-grid sidewalk with solid aluminum plates treated with a friction coating; filling the open grid roadway on the movable span shoulders with lightweight concrete to improve bicycle rideability; repairing failed welds that secure grating; replacing timber fender elements; replacing span locks and modernizing electrical controls; and sealing the concrete approach deck to reduce corrosion from salts carried on boat trailers.

Environmental and access measures: FDOT presenters said they will take measures to protect marine resources, including smalltooth sawfish, sea turtles and manatees, and coordinate construction timing and protections with relevant agencies. FDOT also proposed cutting a stair into the pier face to provide safer maintenance access rather than the existing manhole and ladder arrangement.

Schedule, closures and detours: Designers described a two-phase construction approach. Phase 1 would close the bridge for two to three months to complete high-speed work such as painting and filling the grid deck; traffic detour would route via U.S. 1. Phase 2, estimated at two months, would include sidewalk replacement and pier work; fishing access may be intermittently interrupted. FDOT said boat traffic will not be blocked during the work and that police and fire/rescue agencies will be coordinated with ahead of closures and events.

Public outreach: FDOT scheduled a virtual public meeting for Sept. 16 and an in-person meeting at the Flagler (Stuart) on Sept. 17; staff said notices were mailed and a project website and QR code are available for details. Design completion is expected in early 2026, with construction planned to begin in 2026 and finish in 2028.

Discussion vs. decision: The FDOT presentation was informational; no action or vote was requested of the commission at the Sept. 8 meeting. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about bicycle accommodations and closure timing, and FDOT said the contractor will coordinate major events and limit closures during peak event hours.

Ending: FDOT representatives said they will continue stakeholder coordination and that more detailed design materials and the public meeting materials are available on the project website.