PROJECTS | Seven Mile Bridge Project Development & Environment Study

Seven Mile Bridge Project Development & Environment Study

FDOT District 6, Monroe County, FL

Ardurra is leading the Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study for the iconic SR 5/US-1 Overseas Highway Seven Mile Bridge over the Moser Channel in the Florida Keys. This vital bridge, spanning Little Duck Key to Knights Key, is a critical link between the Florida Keys and mainland Florida.

The PD&E Study is designed to address structural deterioration and substandard elements of the existing bridge while also improving emergency evacuation and response capabilities and enhancing accessibility for pedestrians and bicyclists. The project, anticipated as an Environmental Assessment under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), includes evaluating multiple alternatives to replace the bridge while maintaining the Moser Channel (USCG Navigable Channel).

Environmental stewardship is central to this effort, as the study assesses natural, physical, and cultural impacts on the surrounding environment. It involves extensive coordination and consultation with agencies, including the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, NOAA Fisheries, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Coast Guard, US Army Corps of Engineers, and others. Public engagement is also a cornerstone of the project, with outreach to residents, businesses, and stakeholders through a Project Advisory Group and Environmental Forum.

Ardurra is incorporating cutting-edge strategies to enhance sustainability and ecological preservation:

  • Corrosion-Resistant Materials: Exploring advanced construction materials to extend the service life of the new bridge.
  • Dry Bioretention Islands: Evaluating stormwater management solutions that remove pollutants and metals while promoting natural habitats.
  • In-Lieu Fee Mitigation: Considering a program to address multiple environmental mitigation projects in the Florida Keys.
  • Coral Relocation Partnerships: Partnering with local volunteers to coordinate the relocation of soft corals.

This project represents a collaborative effort to improve infrastructure, prioritize public safety, and protect the unique ecological treasures of the Florida Keys.
Seven Mile Bridge 1
Seven Mile Bridge 2