Alva Bridge

Alva Bridge is a bascule bridge that crosses the Caloosahatchee River and connects the communities on both sides of the waterway. The middle section lifts up to allow boats to pass beneath while vehicles use the roadway during normal conditions.

The original swing bridge from 1925 was damaged beyond repair in 1966 when a barge carrying rocket parts collided with it. The current bascule bridge was built afterward and has served as its replacement since 1969.

This double-leaf bascule bridge represents the engineering evolution of Florida transportation infrastructure, connecting communities across the Caloosahatchee River since 1969.

Under normal conditions the bridge is open to traffic and drivers can cross the river on the roadway. When a boat needs to pass, the bridge lifts and traffic stops temporarily until the vessel clears the span.

The bridge incorporates metal variable depth deck girders and fixed trunnion mechanisms, combined with pre-stressed concrete stringers in its approach spans.

Location: Florida

GPS coordinates: 26.71350,-81.61000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:11