The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is beginning construction on a $123 million replacement of the Cortez Bridge, a major transportation project connecting Bradenton Beach on Anna Maria Island to mainland Manatee County.

The project will replace the existing drawbridge, which has served the area since 1956, with a new 65-foot-high fixed-span bridge designed to improve traffic flow, marine navigation and long-term transportation reliability.

Construction is expected to take approximately three years, with completion anticipated in late 2029.

New Cortez Bridge Will Feature 65-Foot Clearance

The replacement bridge will be constructed along State Road 684, commonly known as Cortez Road, between Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach and 123rd Street West on the mainland.

The approximately 0.9-mile project will include several improvements:

• A new fixed-span bridge with 65 feet of vertical clearance.
• Two travel lanes with wider shoulders.
• Sidewalks on both sides of the bridge.
• Improved roadway approaches and utility infrastructure.
• A new connection to Hunters Point Way.

Unlike the existing drawbridge, the new structure will allow most marine traffic to pass underneath without requiring bridge openings that interrupt vehicle traffic.

The improvements are intended to create a more reliable connection between Anna Maria Island and mainland Bradenton.

Construction Will Take Place in Two Phases

FDOT plans to complete the project in two major phases to maintain vehicle access throughout construction.

During the first phase, crews will construct the northern half of the new bridge alongside the existing structure.

Initial construction activities will include utility relocations, roadway adjustments and the development of new bridge approaches.

Traffic shifts at both ends of the bridge are anticipated by the end of 2026.

Once the first half of the new bridge is completed, traffic will be transferred onto the new structure, allowing crews to demolish the existing bridge and begin constructing the remaining portion.

The second major traffic shift is anticipated in mid-2028.

Construction crews will utilize barges and temporary platforms to complete work over the Intracoastal Waterway.

Project Expected to Be Completed in 2029

According to FDOT, construction is expected to last approximately 1,200 days, placing anticipated completion in late 2029.

The replacement follows years of planning and public discussions regarding the future of the aging bridge.

In 2019, FDOT selected a higher fixed-span replacement rather than constructing another movable drawbridge.

Community representatives have also participated in discussions regarding the bridge’s appearance, including potential pedestrian overlooks, decorative railings and lighting improvements.

What the Project Means for Bradenton Beach and Cortez

The Cortez Bridge is an important transportation connection for residents, tourists and businesses traveling between Anna Maria Island and mainland Manatee County.

The existing drawbridge can contribute to traffic delays when it opens for marine vessels, particularly during periods of heavy seasonal tourism.

Eliminating routine bridge openings could improve travel reliability for commuters, visitors and commercial vehicles.

However, businesses along Cortez Road and in Bradenton Beach may experience temporary traffic disruptions, construction activity and access adjustments during the project.

FDOT intends to maintain traffic across the waterway throughout construction.

Potential Impact on Commercial Real Estate

The $123 million infrastructure investment could have long-term implications for commercial real estate throughout western Manatee County.

Improved transportation reliability may benefit hospitality properties, restaurants, neighborhood retail centers and other businesses that depend on access between the mainland and Anna Maria Island.

For commercial real estate investors and developers, major infrastructure improvements can influence property accessibility, traffic patterns and future redevelopment opportunities.

The Cortez Road corridor remains an important commercial route serving established residential neighborhoods, tourist destinations and growing retail developments throughout West Bradenton.

While the project will not add additional through lanes to the bridge, eliminating drawbridge openings could improve traffic consistency once construction is completed.

Looking Ahead

The Cortez Bridge replacement represents a major transportation investment in Manatee County and one of the area’s most significant upcoming infrastructure projects.

With construction beginning in 2026 and completion anticipated in 2029, the new bridge is expected to provide a modern, long-term connection between Bradenton Beach and the mainland.

As construction progresses, residents, businesses and property owners should monitor FDOT announcements for traffic changes and construction updates.

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