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Okaloosa Island motorists to expect new Highway 98 lane configuration near Brooks Bridge

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has announced that drivers on Okaloosa Island should prepare for a new configuration of the U.S. 98 travel lanes near Brooks Bridge. In preparation for the southward shift of the U.S. 98 travel lanes, crews are currently constructing a new temporary roadway adjacent to the eastbound lanes. The process […]

Jared Williams

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has announced that drivers on Okaloosa Island should prepare for a new configuration of the U.S. 98 travel lanes near Brooks Bridge.

The shift is necessary to accommodate the construction of the new westbound Brooks Bridge structure and approach.

In preparation for the southward shift of the U.S. 98 travel lanes, crews are currently constructing a new temporary roadway adjacent to the eastbound lanes. The process involves grading and compacting piles of black baserock before laying asphalt for the temporary roadway.

The new traffic configuration is expected to be implemented next month, allowing construction to progress on the $171-million Brooks Bridge replacement project.

The project aims to replace the current four-lane bridge, which opened in 1966, with two new parallel bridges that will increase capacity to six travel lanes.

The Brooks Bridge replacement project is estimated to be completed by summer 2027. Drivers are advised to stay informed about the upcoming changes to the U.S. 98 travel lanes and to exercise caution when navigating the construction zone.

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Dave commented on Eglin Air Force Base installing new fencing along Highway 98 on Okaloosa Island

“This article is obviously written by someone with 0 knowledge of the area. The erosion happening now is because " The Wall," as anyone that's been here since the 70's...”

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Laura Y commented on Beach enrichment project underway on Okaloosa Island to help accumulate sand

“How are peoplele going to swim when there are nets every few feet??”

Nita commented on Destin City Council hears presentation on phase two of HarborWalk Village

“I'm looking at this paragraph and thinking, why would city officials allow a DO in 2009 to be vested for 22 years? Wouldn't you think they'd realize the traffic increases...”

M C commented on Eglin Air Force Base installing new fencing along Highway 98 on Okaloosa Island

“Typical government overreach.”

Joseph D Bishop commented on Eglin Air Force Base installing new fencing along Highway 98 on Okaloosa Island

“Why so many boot lockers here”

“This is bs. They just allowed the county”

Elizabeth commented on Eglin Air Force Base installing new fencing along Highway 98 on Okaloosa Island

“There have been no parking signs for years. No one follows them.”

H. commented on Eglin Air Force Base installing new fencing along Highway 98 on Okaloosa Island

“Mr.Siegel, you say we own the Air Force? Keep it up with the negative sentiment, and watch the Air Force close off each side of 98 with fences topped with...”

Dude M. commented on Eglin Air Force Base installing new fencing along Highway 98 on Okaloosa Island

“When I was A Deputy with the Sheriff's Office I was issuing county ordinance citations to people who were parking on the right-of-way along the area of the sea wall...”

“I will continue to go there and enjoy my time on this earth. This is bs. They just allowed the county to gangrape the south side of 98, directly across...”