The Florida Department of Transportation presented improvement alternatives for the barrier islands during a Feb. 24 workshop, detailing potential changes in Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach.
The workshop was part of a Barrier Island project development and environment study examining about 6 miles of roadway, mostly along State Road 789/Gulf Drive, from the Longboat Pass Bridge north to south of Anna Maria at Gulf Drive and the intersection of White Avenue/85th Street in Holmes Beach. Anna Maria opted out of the project.
A PD&E study is a process for determining whether improvements are needed and what alternatives best resolve concerns.
Display boards posted at the workshop at Kirkwood Church in Bradenton contained information about crash histories, traffic patterns and environmental considerations, as well as several build alternatives aimed at improving safety and mobility.
Crash data drew particular attention, as the DOT says there’s been an upward trend in severe crashes since 2019, with more than a third occurring in 2022. The corridor recorded 28 bicycle and pedestrian crashes during the study period, 21% classified as severe.
The DOT also presented three build alternatives, with proposed improvements at Cortez Road including either a 6-foot sidewalk, a 5-foot bicycle lane or a 10-foot shared-use path, along with potential shoulder upgrades and intersection reconfiguration.
Officials said the Cortez Road changes are intended to align with the replacement of the Cortez Bridge, which will begin this year.
Depending on the option selected, 17-24 parcels could be impacted, though no residential displacements are anticipated.
Construction costs are estimated at $42 million-$42.5 million.
DOT materials state the no-build option would not meet the project’s purpose and need.
Design, right-of-way acquisition and construction are not funded in DOT’s current five-year work program.
The study is expected to conclude in late 2026.
For more information, visit swflroads.com.