Initially built in 1912 as part of Henry Flagler’s FEC Railway, the Old 7 Mile Bridge—a popular pedestrian and bicycle facility—weathered the harsh saltwater environment of the Florida Keys for over a century. However, the Florida DOT needed to address the advanced deterioration of the steel and concrete components of the bridge to avoid its permanent closure to residents and visitors. Changes were implemented to make the bridge safer for recreational use, with improvements including structural steel and bridge joint system repairs, as well as new decking and handrails for pedestrians and cyclists. This $43 million rehabilitation project returned safe active transportation access to residents and visitors and minimized impacts on the environment and historical significance of the bridge, given its listing on the National Register of Historic Places.
America's Transportation Awards 