Key West Real Estate: Seven Mile Bridge Will Be Saved

Announced at the end of May, the Keys government and Florida Dept. of Transportation officials have ratified a 30 year, $77 million agreement to fund the restoration and maintenance of the historic Seven Mile Bridge which connects Marathon to Pigeon Key. One of the most photographed spans between the islands, the 2.2 mile bridge is traversed by more than 100,000 people every year by foot or bike in its current form as a recreational walking area. Time and weather have taken its toll on the old bridge and the government has responded, recognizing the need to keep this icon of our area intact and functioning.

The bridge was completed in 1912 as a centerpiece of Henry Flagler’s Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad. In 1938, the bridge was converted for automobile use and in 1982 a new span for cars was built by the federal government paralleling the original span. This last major change saw Seven Mile Bridge become what it is today a popular attraction for tourist and residents alike. Having a pedestrian only bridge between two major areas along the Keys has been beneficial to our tourism industry and our community in general. The bridge serves as a daily connection for those who use it for exercise, viewing the natural beauty of the area and for simple joy of experiencing the span itself.

According to the Florida Department of Transportation, a detailed design phase will be underway, taking into account ways to reinforce the current structure and to replace the decking, hand railings, substructure and superstructure of the bridge. The restoration is anticipated to begin within about two years. There is also talk of adding in a light tram to take tourists to Pigeon Key in lieu of the ferry, which is currently the only way to access the small 5.3 acre island. The island sits below the bridge and is a tourist attraction for the Keys with a focus on the railroad history connected to it.

Seven Mile Bridge is a true gem of the keys for residents and tourists alike. If you are ready to walk this span year round with a home of your own or have a home to sell in the Key West area, please contact me, Jimmy Lane, for all of your real estate needs.