The Florida Department of Transportation is keeping a closer eye on the Anna Maria Island Bridge after a hole formed in the eastbound lane.
In addition to the state’s annually required inspections, the DOT is performing monthly assessments of the bridge deck and bi-weekly visual reviews “to intercept any increasing deterioration,” according to DOT public information officer consultant Jason Heironimus.
The bridge, which connects Holmes Beach to mainland Bradenton via Manatee Avenue, is one of three to the island.
The AMI Bridge was built in 1957 and has outlived its 50-year life expectancy.
Its eastbound lane was closed Aug. 28 after a hole opened in the pavement, revealing rusting rebar and the water below.
Traffic was delayed until the hole was patched overnight. Repairs involved removing the deteriorated concrete, placing a temporary form underneath the damaged area and pouring “high strength and fast setting” concrete, according to Heironimus.
He wrote in a Sept. 19 email to The Islander that the hole was in a section of previously repaired concrete that deteriorated due to long-term salt exposure and recent heavy rains.
DOT staff reviewed the bridge following the repair and has since increased inspections.
Construction of a new high-span bridge is scheduled for 2029, after the construction of a high bridge on Cortez Road between Cortez and Bradenton Beach.
— Ryan Paice