Cortez Bridge Utility Relocation to Impact Traffic Through Spring 2025

Manatee County has announced an ongoing utility relocation project around the Cortez Bridge, expected to affect traffic and pedestrian flow through late spring 2025. The project involves installing a new water main pipe on the north side of Cortez Road W., between 127th Street W. and 124th Court W. The shoulder of 124th Court W. will remain closed through March 2025 to accommodate this work.

Starting in late February or early March, 127th Street W. will be closed between Cortez Road W. and 126th Street W. as water pipe installation activities continue. A detour will be in effect, and this phase is projected to last until late spring.

Drilling and reaming operations are ongoing to prepare the intracostal path for the new force main pipe, extending from the west to the east side of Cortez Bridge. Construction will occur Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with 24-hour operations scheduled for mid-to-late February to complete the intracostal crossing. This intensive phase is expected to take approximately 72 hours.

Motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians are advised to expect delays and to be cautious around construction zones due to intermittent lane closures and equipment movement. The sidewalk and bike lane on the south side of Cortez Road W., west of Cortez Bridge, will remain closed, with detours in place.

For more information, residents can contact Tina Allen, Community Outreach Representative, at info@AMIprojects.io or call (941) 306-4660.