Barron Collier Bridge, Road bridge in Charlotte County, Florida
Barron Collier Bridge is a road bridge connecting Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte in Charlotte County, Florida, carrying the northbound lanes of U.S. Route 41. The structure rises approximately 45 feet above the Peace River and operates alongside the Gilchrist Bridge, which handles southbound traffic on the same route.
The original structure was a drawbridge that served traffic starting in 1931 until a new fixed bridge opened in 1983. The opening of the replacement marked the shift from a movable structure to permanent infrastructure at this crossing.
The bridge takes its name from Barron Collier, a businessman who owned large amounts of land in the area and operated the Hotel Charlotte Harbor. His name reflects his influence on local development.
The bridge is accessible year-round and connects two major residential areas south of Fort Myers. Pedestrians and cyclists should be aware of heavy traffic during peak hours.
The original 1931 bridge structure was submerged after its demolition and later became an artificial reef supporting marine life in Charlotte Harbor. This unexpected transformation gave the old bridge a new purpose beneath the water.
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