ORLANDO, Fla. – The rehabilitation of the Loxahatchee River bridge in Jupiter is underway to add a second track and improve operations along the existing railroad bridge in preparation for Brightline’s expansion to Orlando. Preliminary construction has focused on building a temporary trestle so cranes and work crews can access the water north and west of the bridge. Today, bridge work will begin on the bascule span and the drawbridge which involves driving piles to support overall bridge rehabilitation.

 

During construction, the drawbridge will remain in the down position on two non-consecutive days for up to 12-hour intervals each day. Due to the type of construction work and necessary safety precautions, the bridge will not be raised during the 12-hour work periods. The bridge will resume normal operations following the work periods. Freight traffic will continue normal operations at all times.

 

The bridge rehabilitation, by Brightline contractor Scott Bridge Company, will improve the clearance for boaters, modifying a bridge spans to provide additional clearance for the passage of boats while the bridge is in the down position. Bridge improvements will also include replacement of all electrical and mechanical components of the bridge, all new structural steel, replacement of the existing track and the addition of a second track. Bridge work is being coordinated with the U.S. Coast Guard, the Jupiter Inlet District and local municipalities. The clearance improvement project is made in collaboration with the Jupiter Inlet District.

 

Brightline will use variable message signs along the channel to communicate information. Mariners can text “LOX” to 855-686-1236 to sign up for text alert updates. Brightline will also provide updates via Twitter @GoBrightline and on the Brightline website. The bridge rehabilitation project is expected to be completed in late 2022.

 

Loxahatchee River Bridge Work

Bascule span, drawbridge, to remain in the down position during the following dates and times:

• 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday August 4.
• 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday, August 9.

Backup dates of August 5, 6, 10 and 11 may be utilized if necessary.

The bridge will operate on its normal schedule outside of work days and times.