HPB25-0681

VENETIAN CAUSEWAY BRIDGES 2 THROUGH 12

The following summaries were generated by AI from the official documents linked below. They may contain errors. Please refer to the original documents for authoritative information.

Proposal

The application requests a Certificate of Appropriateness for the demolition of 11 structurally deficient bridge structures (Bridges 2–12) along the Venetian Causeway and their replacement with new bridges elevated approximately one foot above existing grades. The replacement bridges will replicate the historic low-profile arched character, ornamental double X-pattern concrete railings, and historically-referenced light fixtures of the 1926 original structures. The project also includes widened bicycle lanes and sidewalks, conversion of utilities to sub-aqueous lines, and sea level rise adaptation measures.

From the Letter of Intent

Replace 11 of the 12 Venetian Causeway bridge structures while preserving their historic appearance. The replacement bridges will incorporate low profile design elements, arched beams with same span configurations, and historically sensitive features.

  • Replace 11 of 12 bridge structures
  • Incorporate low profile and appearance of original structures
  • Use arched beams with same span configurations
  • Install geometrically designed concrete bridge railings that recognize historic railing design
  • Implement historically sensitive bridge lighting fixtures
  • Raise vertical alignment of Bridges 2 through 9, 11 and 12 approximately 1-ft above existing clearance
  • Raise Bridge 10 above 100-year storm surge height
  • Preserve two historic octagonal entrance towers in current location
Staff Recommendation
APPROVAL W/ CONDITIONS
In view of the foregoing analysis, staff recommends the request for a Certificate of Appropriateness be approved, subject to the conditions enumerated in the attached draft Order, which ensure continued compliance with the applicable Certificate of Appropriateness criteria

Compliance Findings:

✗ Sea Level Rise: Not Satisfied ✓ Certificate Of Appropriateness: Satisfied
Key Issues
  • All 11 bridges are classified as Structurally Deficient with 2024 Sufficiency Ratings below 50, precluding rehabilitation
  • Recycling or salvage plan for demolished bridge structures not provided at time of application (Sea Level Rise Criterion A not satisfied)
  • Replication of ornamental double X-pattern railings must match 1926 historic design to greatest extent feasible
  • Final design details for Bridge Tender House at new East Bascule Bridge (Bridge 10) must be consistent with 2021 Memorandum of Agreement
  • Protection of two historic octagonal entrance towers at causeway termini during construction
  • Raising of bridge decks approximately one foot for sea level rise adaptation while preserving historic low-profile arched character
  • Spoil island improvements must be consistent with 60% design plans and Section 106 Evaluation report
Property Details
Historic District Venetian Islands Historic District
Year Built 1926
Applicant Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), District 6
Architect EAC Consulting, Inc.
Existing Building
Year Built 1926
Full demolition proposed
Meeting

Tuesday, March 17, 2026

09:00 AM

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