JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – If you happen to’re heading by means of Downtown Jacksonville subsequent week, plan for delays.
The Essential Avenue Bridge (State Highway 5) shall be closed to all autos, bicycles, and pedestrians Monday, Aug. 11, by means of Friday, Aug. 16, for an necessary bridge inspection and upkeep undertaking.
The work is a component of a bigger rehabilitation effort to guage the bridge’s mechanical techniques and structural well being.
Crews are conducting a LiDAR (Laser Imaging, Detection, and Ranging) scan, together with a full mechanical inspection of the bridge’s raise system. This consists of the trunnion bearings — giant pivot factors that act just like the bridge’s “shoulder joints,” permitting it to open and shut for vessel site visitors.
“These elements put on down over time,” FDOT stated in an announcement, “and the information collected this week will assist engineers plan a significant trunnion alternative scheduled for early 2028.”
The Acosta Bridge is the official detour, and drivers ought to count on a few two-minute delay relying on site visitors circulate. Vessels touring beneath the Essential Avenue Bridge won’t be impacted by the closure.
The timing additionally coincides with Duval County colleges resuming for the brand new educational 12 months, so drivers are inspired to permit for additional journey time through the morning and afternoon commute.
To remain up to date on lane closures and site visitors impacts, drivers can observe FDOT District 2 on X (@MyFDOT_NEFL) or Fb (@MyFDOTNEFL). Actual-time site visitors alerts are additionally accessible at FL511.com or through the FL511 app.
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