By Ned Steele

Expect longer travel times on and off Siesta Key, as lane closures on the Stickney Point Bridge will continue into February, according to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

The lane closures are part of a $2.4 million renovation of the 57-year-old bridge, originally slated for completion by the end of 2024. Delays, primarily caused by storms Helene and Milton, have pushed the expected completion date to early March, pending weather conditions, FDOT said.

FDOT does not anticipate any further full shutdowns of the bridge, though lane closures will persist “on an as-needed basis,” according to an FDOT spokesperson. These closures have caused significant traffic delays, frustrating residents, businesses, and visitors who had hoped the work would be completed before the winter tourist season.

Concerns have been raised about potential delays in access to emergency medical services due to the lane closures.

While specific dates and times for lane closures form February were not available at press time, FDOT provides weekly updates on its RoadWatch report online.

The renovation project involves upgrading machinery, repaving approaches, and replacing structural steel components of the bridge’s movable sections. FDOT stated that marine traffic should experience minimal impact from the ongoing work.