Roadwork to Affect Okaloosa, Walton County Drivers

Drivers on U.S. 98 between Ferry Road and Pier Road will face intermittent nightly lane closures this week as part of the ongoing Brooks Bridge Replacement Project. The Florida Department of Transportation announced the closures will occur from 21:00 to 05:30 Sunday through Thursday.

The Brooks Bridge Replacement Project is a $171 million initiative to construct two new parallel bridges over Santa Rosa Sound, replacing the aging four-lane bridge that connects Fort Walton Beach to Okaloosa Island. The project aims to increase bridge capacity and improve traffic flow along the Gulf Coast Intracoastal Waterway.

Lane closures will be in effect from 21:00 to 05:30 each night from Sunday, August 23 through Thursday, August 27. During these hours, drivers should expect reduced lanes and potential delays on U.S. 98 between Ferry Road and Pier Road. The Florida Department of Transportation advises motorists to plan ahead, consider alternate routes, and allow extra travel time.

In addition to the U.S. 98 lane closures, work on Santa Rosa Boulevard from east of Amberjack Drive to Ross Marler Park will also see nightly lane reductions during the same time period. These adjustments are necessary to accommodate construction activities and ensure worker safety.

For the most current updates on the Brooks Bridge Replacement Project and related traffic impacts, drivers can visit the Florida Department of Transportation’s Northwest Florida Roads website or follow official FDOT social media channels. Staying informed helps drivers navigate the construction zone safely and efficiently.

Originally reported by Niceville.com, Get the Coast. Image: Niceville.com / FDOT.