The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) closed both the northbound and southbound lanes of the US-41 Caloosahatchee Bridge in Fort Myers yesterday afternoon.
According to FDOT, the bridge is not closed for repairs, but the approach slabs north of the bridge due to washout after Hurricane Ian touched down on the Florida coast.
FDOT made a statement saying, "The reason that the Caloosahatchee Bridge was closed was not related to structure itself. The reasoning for the closure was due to the part of the roadway known as the approach slabs. The approach slabs north of the bridge have experienced some washout. Crews are currently evaluating the approach slabs to determine the timeline of the closure as well as cause."
FDOT says the lanes will be closed in both directions until further notice as crews review thew impacts of the corridor.
Adam Rose, spokesperson for FDOT said if repairs need to be made, crews will fill it in with grout and concrete.
Fort Myers Police say they expect the closure to last 3-7 days but FDOT is not confirming that at this time.
FDOT says motorists should avoid the area, or follow the detours.
The detours the department provided are as follows:
Motorists traveling Northbound U.S. 41 from south of the bridge
- Turn right onto State Road (S.R.) 82
- Turn onto left Northbound Business U.S. 41
- Turn left onto Pondella Road
- Turn right onto Northbound U.S. 41
Motorists traveling Southbound U.S. 41 from north of bridge
- Turn left onto Pondella Road
- Turn right onto Business U.S. 41
- Turn right onto S.R. 82
- Turn left onto Southbound U.S. 41
The School District of Lee County says the closing will cause delays in bus transportation.
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Source: FDOT, Fox4Now
