A $102 million project to replace the 64-year-old Sebastian Inlet Bridge is expected to begin in the coming weeks. The new bridge will be built east of the current structure and include two 12-foot travel lanes, shared use paths for pedestrians and cyclists, and two new fishing piers. The work comes as the existing bridge faces structural issues from decades of use and storm damage.
Kenneth Langfelder, a local who crosses the bridge daily, said the inlet’s tidal pool is a popular spot for fishing and family outings. He and his wife often bring their grandchildren to the area. "Fishing is really good, and it’s convenient for us," Langfelder said. "We just live on the other side of the river." The new design includes observation areas on both sides of the inlet and crosswalks connecting the north and south parts of the state park.
James Gray of the Sebastian Inlet District said the Florida Department of Transportation has worked closely with the community. "FDOT has been collaborating with us from the very beginning and addressed all of our concerns with the design," Gray said. The new bridge will have 12-foot shared use paths, unlike the old one, which had no dedicated space for pedestrians or cyclists.
Construction will proceed in phases to avoid full closures, with traffic remaining open both ways 24/7. Temporary closures will occur during non-peak hours. Langfelder said the upgrades will make the area more accessible. "It’s going to have a walkway, have some lookout points, it’s a pretty cool setup," he said.
The project is expected to take five years, with completion scheduled for fall 2031. FDOT officials emphasized the effort to minimize disruptions while modernizing the critical transportation link between Brevard and Indian River counties.