About the Bridge: Causes for Pauses on the way to Sanibel

One may wonder, seeing the Sanibel Causeway ranked high on the attractions of Sanibel Island, how a bridge can gain such favor.

But to best understand the popularity of the Causeway, a little history is in order.

As early as 1912, automobile ferries serviced Sanibel Island from the mainland at Punta Rassa. The idea of building a bridge from the mainland to the island was highly controversial amongst the early residents of the island, as many thought a bridge would ruin the beauty and isolated feel of the island. One of the largest proponents of building a bridge, however, was island resident Hugo Lindgren who saw the island's potential and tried to convince Lee County to build a bridge. Despite the opinions of the islanders, it was clear that the ferries were insufficient by the mid 1950s as demand increased leading to long lines of vehicles waiting to cross the bay. Wildfires on the island in 1955 further convinced the county to build a bridge as it would improve access to the island for firefighters.

In early 2003, during a routine inspection, severe cracks were discovered underneath a 48-foot (15 m) deck section on Bridge B. After this discovery, all three of the bridges were very closely monitored, and the damaged section was braced with additional steel pilings. Construction of the current bridges commenced in August 2004. The three dollar toll was increased to six dollars in November 2004 in order to finance construction. Construction on the current spans lasted three years, and cost $137 million.

And while there are a few who would argue that the charm of the island was compromised by a high, set bridge, there are many good points demonstrating the contrary.  The causeway not only helps to facilitate a quick access onto the island, it provides the "best view" of the island.  Crossing over the causeway is like driving into heaven.  Water everywhere, the Sanibel lighthouse in the distance, osprey resting on the railings, pelicans perusing the bay and diving for fish are among the sights to be seen and enjoyed as you ride the new bridge.

But being on the causeway is only half the fun.  There is also the Causeway Beach, where visitors can swim, fish, gather shells, picnic and ride (cautiously) on jet skis.  And though most of these activities are available on the Island beaches, there are two rarities witnessed along the causeway....shade and close to beach parking.

We are not suggesting the causeway as a substitute for a stay on Sanibel, but as many have noted, it is a beautiful transition on to the Island with its own special set of delights!