Traffic shifts for a Northwest Florida bridge’s $171 million makeover

DESTIN, Fla. ( WKRG ) — Work continues on the Brooks Bridge, a key route connecting Fort Walton Beach to Okaloosa Island and Destin.

The $171 million project aims to replace the existing four-lane bridge, built in 1966, with a new six-lane structure, improving safety and easing congestion along U.S. 98.

This week, traffic on U.S. 98 between Brooks Bridge and Pier Road has been shifted onto temporary lanes to allow crews to construct the new westbound side of the bridge. Two lanes will remain open in each direction, but intermittent lane closures may occur overnight from 9 p.m. to 5:30 a.m., Sunday through Friday morning​.

The Brooks Bridge handles about 38,000 vehicles daily, which often leads to heavy congestion during peak travel times. The new bridge, with six lanes, will better accommodate this volume, ensuring smoother traffic flow for both commuters and tourists heading to the beaches and other destinations​.

In addition to increased capacity, the new bridge will feature dedicated pedestrian and bicycle lanes, improving safety for non-vehicle traffic. This is especially important for those who commute on foot or by bike between Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island​.

The project is expected to be completed by summer 2027. During construction, all activities remain weather-dependent, and delays may occur in case of inclement weather. Drivers are encouraged to exercise caution, especially at night, and watch for construction workers and equipment entering and exiting the roadway​.

For real-time updates on traffic conditions, drivers can refer to the Florida Highway Patrol’s live traffic crash feed​.

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