Story Tools

Bridge will open for emergencies

Residents of the north half of Anna Maria Island need not worry about a hurricane evacuation limited to just the Cortez Bridge during the 45 days the Anna Maria Island Bridge is closed.

DOT officials in Bartow have pledged that if an evacuation is ordered during that period, the bascule (drawbridge) for the Anna Maria Island Bridge will be lowered by the contractor to allow evacuation.

Contractor Quinn Construction Co. of Palmetto has emergency power equipment on site that will allow it to raise and lower the bascule as needed, including for access by emergency vehicles.