FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kris Cella, Cella & Associates,
Inc.
(239) 337-1071 FAX: (239) 337-1076
Kcella@cella.cc
Sanibel Causeway Construction Begins/Safety First - Recreational Bay Users Please Be Aware!
Fort Myers, FL (August 26, 2004) - Construction begins today on the Sanibel Causeway Improvements Project on the middle bridge, also known as Bridge B. Due to hurricane recovery efforts on Sanibel, access to the causeway islands is limited to residents and authorized emergency personnel only.
During this time the safety of construction workers in the bay, and recreational bay users is a priority. Bay users must slow their speed down and abide by the no-wake zone signs at the construction site. Boats can create dangerous conditions for construction workers. Operation of boats or personal recreational watercraft in proximity to the construction zone can result in distractions and disruptions to the construction activity and could result in unnecessary hazards for the public and the construction workers.
To ensure the safety of all recreational bay users traveling within 500 feet of the bridge, please maintain a safe distance from the yellow turbidity barriers and any buoys marking areas where construction is being conducted. It is further requested that all recreational watercraft maintain 300 feet from any the crane and equipment barges.
Construction Sequence
Construction will start with the middle bridge (Bridge B) and be followed by construction of the bridge adjacent to Sanibel (Bridge C). It will initially begin with test pile driving efforts adjacent to the existing bridge(s). Following this, permanent pile construction begins. Then the substructure components (such as footings and foundations) and then girders (beams) will be installed for each section/span of the bridge. The concrete deck will then be poured. Temporary roadways on the causeway islands will be constructed concurrently to coordinate and support the approach work to the Islands. Upon bridge completion, final road and tie-in(s) will be constructed. Project completion is estimated for March 2006.
For more information and project updates please see the project website at www.lee-county.com, contact
Kris Cella, Cella & Associates, Inc.
2125 First Street Suite 201
Fort Myers, FL 33901
(239) 337-1071 or toll free (877) 496-1076
kcella@cella.cc