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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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