Location and Dimensions
The Destin Bridge, officially known as the Mid-Bay Bridge, is a two-lane toll bridge that spans across the Choctawhatchee Bay in Okaloosa County, Florida [3]. It connects the city of Destin to Niceville, providing a vital transportation link between the popular tourist destination and the mainland. The bridge is approximately 3.6 miles (5.8 km) long and consists of 141 spans [1, 3].
Key Facts
- Location: The Destin Bridge spans across the Choctawhatchee Bay, connecting Destin and Niceville in Okaloosa County, Florida[3].
- Length: The bridge is approximately 3.6 miles (5.8 km) long, consisting of 141 spans.
- Design: The bridge is a two-lane toll bridge with a total of 141 spans.
- Main Span: The main span of the bridge is 225 feet long.
- Clearance: The bridge provides 65 feet of vertical clearance and 180 feet of horizontal clearance over the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Construction: The Mid-Bay Bridge was constructed in 1992-1993 to provide a more direct route between the Destin beaches and the mainland, as well as to assist in hurricane evacuation efforts.
Design and Construction
The Mid-Bay Bridge was designed by FIGG Bridge Group and constructed between 1992 and 1993 [3]. It features a uniform shape and constant depth superstructure, which complements the vast open waterway it crosses [2]. The main span of the bridge is 225 feet long and provides 65 feet of vertical clearance and 180 feet of horizontal clearance over the Intracoastal Waterway [2, 3]. The typical spans are 136 feet long [2].
Purpose and Impact
The construction of the Mid-Bay Bridge was driven by the need for a more direct route between Destin and the mainland, particularly for tourists visiting the beach [1]. The bridge also serves as a crucial evacuation route during hurricanes, allowing residents and visitors to escape from coastal areas quickly and safely [1].
Funding and Recognition
Innovative financing with revenue bonds supported by tolls allowed the Mid-Bay Bridge Authority to construct the bridge without relying solely on government funding [2]. The project has been recognized with several design awards, including the 1993 Best in Bridge Construction Award from the Florida Transportation Builders’ Association [2].
References
- Mid-Bay Bridge. (n.d.). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid-Bay_Bridge
- Mid-Bay Bridge. (n.d.). FIGG Bridge Group. https://www.figgbridge.com/mid-bay-bridge
- Ricketts, D. (2019, November 19). When was the first Destin bridge built? The Destin Log. https://www.thedestinlog.com/story/news/2019/11/19/when-was-first-destin-bridge-built/2255803007/
FAQs
Where is the Destin Bridge located?
The Destin Bridge, also known as the Mid-Bay Bridge, is located in Okaloosa County, Florida, and spans across the Choctawhatchee Bay. It connects the city of Destin to Niceville.
How long is the Destin Bridge?
The Destin Bridge is approximately 3.6 miles (5.8 km) long.
How many spans does the Destin Bridge have?
The Destin Bridge consists of 141 spans.
What is the main span of the Destin Bridge?
The main span of the Destin Bridge is 225 feet long.
What is the clearance of the Destin Bridge?
The Destin Bridge provides 65 feet of vertical clearance and 180 feet of horizontal clearance over the Intracoastal Waterway.
When was the Destin Bridge built?
The Destin Bridge was constructed between 1992 and 1993.
Why was the Destin Bridge built?
The Destin Bridge was built to provide a more direct route between Destin and the mainland, as well as to assist in hurricane evacuation efforts.
Is the Destin Bridge a toll bridge?
Yes, the Destin Bridge is a two-lane toll bridge.