Cortez Bridge Utility Relocation to Begin November 18, Lane Closures Announced

CORTEZ— The Manatee County Public Works Department is set to begin utility relocation work on the Cortez Bridge starting Monday, November 18, 2024. The project involves relocating the SR 684 (Cortez Road) water main and force main in preparation for constructing a new bridge.

As part of the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) Cortez Bridge Construction Project, the existing water and force mains will be shifted to the south side of the current bridge. This is necessary to align with the proposed bridge's future layout.

The project's initial phase includes installing a temporary barrier wall, scheduled from 7:00 p.m. on November 18 through 5:00 a.m. on November 19. During this time, Cortez Road W. will be reduced to one lane between Avenue B and 123rd Street W. to accommodate the construction activity. Traffic in both directions will remain operational with flaggers managing flow.

The lane closure is a precursor to the installation of intercoastal pipe infrastructure, which will extend from the west side of the bridge to the east. This portion of the project will begin on November 19 and continue thereafter.

Residents and travelers are urged to remain mindful of construction crews and changing traffic patterns in the area. Updates about the project can be accessed via the AMI Projects website or by scanning the QR code provided on official notices.

The relocation is a key step toward advancing the FDOT's plans for the new Cortez Bridge, designed to improve the area’s infrastructure and accommodate future transportation needs.