Howard Frankland Bridge trail to open Wednesday
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The pedestrian and bike trail along the Howard Frankland Bridge. Photo: Florida Department of Transportation
The walking and biking trail along the new Howard Frankland Bridge is set to open Wednesday, according to the Florida Department of Transportation.
- The bridge's express lanes will also likely open this week, weather permitting, department spokesperson Kris Carson told Axios.
The big picture: The new path and lanes mark the last major milestones in the years-long, nearly $1 billion project to remake the busiest thoroughfare between Tampa and St. Petersburg.
- The new bridge, which opened in March 2025, has four southbound lanes and four express lanes, with two going in each direction.
State of play: The 12-foot-wide paved path on the north side of the bridge spans about 7 miles, Carson said. Four overlook areas will provide shade and seating for pedestrians and cyclists.
- For the express lanes to open, construction crews still need to finish putting up signs and striping the road, Carson said. The lanes will be free at first then charge drivers 50 cents.
What's next: With cleanup work still left to do, Carson said drivers should obey the 55 mph speed limit and not drive distracted.