Siesta Key Bascule Bridge

Siesta Key Bascule Bridge: Essential Facts and Updates

The Siesta Key Bascule Bridge is a unique and integral part of the Siesta Key area in Sarasota, Florida. Spanning across Roberts Bay, this double-leaf bascule bridge connects the barrier island of Siesta Key with the mainland of Sarasota, facilitating both vehicular and waterway traffic in the region. Built in 1972, the bridge replaced the original swing bridge constructed in 1926 source, and has since become a local landmark.

Featuring a closed vertical clearance of 25 feet and a horizontal clearance of 90 feet source, the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge has a smooth opening mechanism that allows safe passage for boats and other watercraft. With a regular opening schedule, the drawbridge provides minimal disruption to both land and marine traffic, while still catering to the needs of the boaters transiting the Intracoastal Waterway.

As an integral part of Florida State Road 758, the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge is not only an architectural marvel but also an essential component of the area's transportation infrastructure. Tourists and locals alike can appreciate its role in connecting key destinations within Sarasota and Siesta Key while enjoying the stunning views of the bay from the bridge's vantage point.

Siesta Key Bascule Bridge Overview

Location and Surroundings

The Siesta Key Bascule Bridge, also known as the Sarasota Bay Bridge, is located in Sarasota, Florida. It spans across the Roberts Bay, connecting the barrier island of Siesta Key to the mainland of Sarasota. The bridge is an essential transportation link, carrying Siesta Drive (part of Florida State Road 758) which connects to US 41.

Siesta Key is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant community, and various recreational activities. The bridge itself serves as a vital access point for visitors and residents, facilitating smooth vehicular and boat traffic in the area.

Bridge Type and Design

Constructed in 1972, the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge replaced the original swing bridge built in 1926. The current bridge features a double-leaf bascule design, allowing it to open at its center to accommodate passing boat traffic.

This bridge type is characterized by its movable spans, which pivot upward around a horizontal axis to create a clear channel for waterborne vessels. The Siesta Key Bascule Bridge spans a total length of 1,278.3 feet, with a main span length of 116.5 feet and a roadway width of 28.2 feet. The bridge's double-leaf design and robust construction have made it a reliable and efficient crossing for both road and boat traffic in the region.

Bridge Specifications

Vertical Clearance

The Siesta Key Bascule Bridge, also known as the Sarasota Bay Bridge, provides a vertical clearance for vessels passing underneath. This clearance is important to accommodate the variety of boats that navigate through the area.

Horizontal Clearance

In addition to the vertical clearance, the bridge also offers a horizontal clearance of 90 feet in the center span. This ensures that boats of varying widths can pass through the channel safely.

Closed Vertical Clearance

When the Bascule Bridge is not in its open position, it still maintains a closed vertical clearance of 18 feet. This allows smaller boats to pass underneath it without the need for the bridge to be raised, improving efficiency for both boat traffic and vehicular traffic on the bridge.

Draft and Low Tide

Boats navigating through the channel near Siesta Key Bascule Bridge should be cautious of the depth, especially at low tide. The channel shoals abruptly outside of the marked limits, and it is recommended that vessels maintain a slow speed and close eye on the depth as they approach the bridge. This precaution is particularly important during weekends and holidays when boat traffic tends to be heavier.

Overall, the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge provides an important crossing point for both vehicular traffic between Siesta Key and the mainland of Sarasota, Florida, and for boat traffic through the Intracoastal Waterway. With careful consideration of the vertical and horizontal clearances, as well as water depth at low tide, boats can safely navigate the area.

Navigational Information

Mile Marker

The Siesta Key Bascule Bridge is located at mile marker 71.6 on the Intracoastal Waterway, which provides a significant navigational landmark for boaters navigating this section of the waterway ¹. The bridge's location is important for planning purposes as well as for boaters and navigation as it marks the start and end points to adjust their vessel speed when approaching or departing the bridge area.

VHF Channel

While navigating near the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge, it is essential for boaters to monitor the proper VHF Channel. This allows them to communicate with bridge operators and receive important updates regarding the bridge's operation status, including opening schedules and any potential delays or closures.

Waterway Guide

To facilitate navigation and provide additional information about the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge to boaters, a waterway guide is available online. This guide offers crucial details, such as vertical clearance when closed at 25.00 ft, horizontal clearance of 90.00 ft, and opening schedules that state the draw shall open on signal, except from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, when the draw is only required to open on the hour and half hour.

Passes and Accuracy

While navigating the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge, boaters must be aware of their vessel's dimensions and how they relate to the bridge's clearances. The marked passes under the bridge are guaranteed to be accurate, but it is always essential to maintain situational awareness and practice safe boating practices at all times. Ensuring safe passage through the bridge relies on the accuracy of the marked guiding lines and adherence to the bridge opening schedule.

Footnotes

1. Siesta Drive Bridge - Waterway Guide ↩

Traffic and Operation

Schedule

The Siesta Key Bridge is a bascule bridge, which is a type of movable bridge. It operates on a regular schedule to allow for boat traffic to pass safely through the Intracoastal Waterway. During peak hours, the bridge lifts more frequently to accommodate the increased boat traffic. It is essential for boats and motorists to plan ahead and be aware of these schedules to avoid any unexpected delays.

Impact on Local Traffic

The Siesta Key Bridge serves as an important connection between mainland Sarasota and the barrier island of Siesta Key. Approximately 15,000 vehicles cross the bridge daily. The bridge's operation can disrupt local traffic, as vehicles are required to stop and wait for the bridge to lower after boat traffic has passed. Sarasota Police may direct traffic during times when the bridge is stuck or experiencing significant delays, as was the case in a past incident.

Local traffic can be impacted by the bridge's operation schedule. However, travelers can adjust their plans by paying attention to the bridge's lift schedule and traffic updates from the Sarasota Police and other relevant agencies. This information can be found on local radio stations, news websites, and traffic reporting sites.

In summary, Siesta Key Bridge's operation schedule is a vital aspect of managing both marine and vehicular traffic in the area. Its impact on local traffic is significant and requires residents and tourists to plan around the bridge's opening and closing times to minimize any potential delays.

Nearby Points of Interest

Sarasota Bay

Siesta Key Bridge, a bascule bridge, connects the mainland to the beautiful island of Siesta Key, and one of its significant highlights is its proximity to Sarasota Bay. Sarasota Bay, an estuary on the Gulf Coast of Southwest Florida, offers picturesque views and abundant wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. Some popular activities in the area include boating, kayaking, and bird watching.

Fishing Spots

With its unique location along the Intracoastal Waterway, Siesta Key is an excellent destination for fishing enthusiasts. Near the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge, numerous fishing spots provide ample opportunity to catch a variety of fish species. One such location is Point of Rocks, a rare geologic formation that also serves as an ideal spot for bird and marine wildlife viewing. Another popular spot is Little Sarasota Bay, where anglers can find popular game fish such as snook, redfish, and tarpon.

Hotels and Accommodations

Siesta Key has various hotels and accommodations available for visitors to choose from. These range from luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, ensuring that tourists find a comfortable stay while exploring all the attractions near the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge. Some of the popular hotels include Tropical Breeze Resort, Siesta Key Palms Resort, and Captiva Beach Resort. With easy access to the beach, nearby fishing spots, and other popular attractions, these accommodations cater to a wide range of needs and preferences.

Ownership and History

Bridge Owner

The Siesta Key Bascule Bridge, which connects the mainland to Siesta Key in Sarasota, Florida, is under the jurisdiction of the Florida Department of Transportation. The bridge is not particularly old but is known for its design consisting of a pair of bascule spans. It facilitates the flow of vehicular traffic on State Highway 72 and also allows boats to pass through the Intracoastal Waterway.

Hurricane Impact on Bridge

Although there have been many hurricanes and storms affecting the Florida coast, there is no specific evidence pointing to significant hurricane damage to the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge. However, hurricane impacts on infrastructure in the area are always a concern, particularly because Siesta Key is on the coastline.

The bridge, constructed in 1968, carries an average daily traffic of 27,000 vehicles as per 2021 data. In preparation for hurricanes, the Florida Department of Transportation consistently assesses and maintains the bridge to ensure its structural integrity and safety for residents, tourists, and boating enthusiasts traversing the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the operating schedule of the Stickney Point Bridge?

The Stickney Point Bascule Bridge, located on Little Sarasota Bay behind Siesta Key, is a busy thoroughfare for vehicle traffic near the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway Mile Marker 70. The operating schedule may vary or be subject to change due to maintenance or other factors. For the latest information and hours of operation, it is recommended to consult local authorities or marinas.

How long does it take for the Bascule Bridge to open and close?

The exact time it takes for the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge to open and close depends on various factors, such as bridge traffic and maintenance conditions. Generally, bascule bridges are designed to open and close within a few minutes to minimize disruptions to waterway and vehicular traffic.

What is the clearance height for boats under the Bridge?

The Siesta Key Bascule Bridge has a closed vertical clearance of 18 feet, with 90 feet of horizontal clearance in the center span. This allows for the passage of boats of various sizes under the bridge when it is in its closed position.

Are there any restrictions for vehicles crossing the Bridge?

There may be weight and height restrictions for vehicles crossing the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge, as well as occasional traffic control measures such as lane closures due to maintenance or construction work. Drivers should pay attention to posted signs and follow any instructions given by traffic authorities.

Are Siesta Key Bridge openings synchronized with other nearby bridges?

It is unclear whether the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge and other nearby bascule bridges have synchronized opening schedules. Coordination between different bridges could be possible to minimize waterway and vehicular traffic disruptions. However, to get the most accurate information, contacting local marinas or authorities responsible for bridge operations is recommended.

What is the history of the Siesta Key Bascule Bridge?

The Siesta Key Bascule Bridge was built in 1972 and is 1,278.3 feet in length. It carries Florida Route 758 (Siesta Drive) and connects Siesta Key to the mainland of Sarasota. The bridge features a double-leaf bascule design, allowing for efficient opening and closing for the passage of waterway traffic.