FDOT outlines $11 million rehabilitation plan for Old Roosevelt (Dixie Highway) movable bridge in Stuart

FDOT design project manager Lance Jones and HDR movable‑bridge engineer Ronald Sanchez told the Martin County MPO April 20 that a planned rehabilitation of the Old Roosevelt (Dixie Highway) movable bridge (project ID 450587‑2‑52‑01) will focus on mechanical, electrical and user‑safety upgrades and is estimated at about $11 million.

Lance Jones described the project location and schedule: the design is expected to be completed in early 2026, the project is to be let to contractors in May (May 8 letting was cited) and anticipated construction runs from fall 2026 through spring 2028. Jones said staff expect phased impacts, including planned full bridge closures during a 4–5 month phase and an intermittent single‑lane closure phase; total on‑site impact periods were described as about 8–9 months depending on contractor scheduling and methods.

Ronald Sanchez outlined technical work: the plan replaces the electrical control system; repairs mechanical systems including “the replacement of the span locks” to eliminate alignment jumps; paints all bridge steel; provides maintenance‑access stairs to avoid sidewalk hatches; installs solid 4‑foot riding paths for bicyclists across the movable span; repairs fenders; and connects the control‑house sanitary line to the city pump station.

Sanchez also described marine and environmental precautions: FDOT conducted benthic (seagrass) surveys (2016 and an updated survey in 2024) and expects no seagrass or essential fish habitat in the immediate work area; temporary barges will be used for fender repair and monitoring for manatees and sea turtles would be performed if required. He said corrosion on portions of the deck appears limited to the surface and will be mitigated with an epoxy coating.

Board members focused questions on traffic impacts during construction and whether contract special provisions could restrict work during events such as the Stuart Boat Show. FDOT staff said special provisions can prohibit work during specific events but that setting an overarching seasonal prohibition in contract plans is unusual; however, FDOT indicated it can negotiate timing during construction and noted prior examples where construction was delayed or contractor compensation negotiated to avoid peak seasons.

FDOT estimated construction as roughly $11 million and said more detailed schedules and a public‑information plan will be provided as the CEI (construction engineering and inspection) team is named and preconstruction coordination occurs.