Platt Bridge Closes Monday

 The 85 year old drawbridge, which carries thousands of motorists daily into downtown Tampa, will close Monday. It is scheduled to be reopened in January 2012.

 The 518 foot bridge, built by the same firm that created the Golden Gate Bridge, was given historic status five years ago. All the gears and motors have been custom machined and are ready for use in this $13.8 million rehab job. The new bridge will be an exact copy of the former.

Traffic snags are expected. We are advised to use the Lee Roy Selmon instead of Bayshore Blvd for trips  downtown. Northbound Bayshore Blvd. will be closed at Swann Avenue. You are advised to add extra time to your trips downtown.   

                       source: TBT 9/28/11