After years of planning for a full replacement of the King Street Bridge, Florida transportation officials are now evaluating whether short-term repairs could extend the bridge’s lifespan and delay major construction.

The update was shared during the St. Augustine City Commission meeting on February 2026, where City Manager David Birchim told commissioners that the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is exploring an interim repair option.

FDOT has not made a final decision.

FDOT project page:
https://www.fdot.gov/

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Bridge May Temporarily Close for Repairs

According to city officials, FDOT is considering closing the bridge for approximately one month to complete structural stabilization work.

The proposed repairs would focus on reinforcing key structural components underneath the bridge, including:

• Encapsulating support beams
• Strengthening pylons
• Injecting grout or similar material to improve stability

The goal would be to extend the bridge’s usable life by several years while transportation officials prepare for a future replacement.

The King Street Bridge carries State Road 5 (U.S. 1 Business) over the San Sebastian River and serves as a key connection between downtown St. Augustine and western areas of the city.

City information:
https://www.citystaug.com/

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Full Replacement Project Previously Planned

FDOT had previously announced plans for a full bridge replacement, estimated to cost approximately $13.4 million.

Under that plan, the existing bridge would be demolished and replaced with a new structure featuring:

• Two 11-foot travel lanes
• An 11-foot center turn lane
• Wider sidewalks
• Updated lighting
• New bridge railings

Construction had been expected to begin in summer 2025 and continue through spring 2027.

Project details:
https://www.fdot.gov/projects/

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Temporary Traffic Changes Already Being Prepared

FDOT crews are currently installing a temporary traffic signal at the intersection of U.S. 1 and Malaga Street.

This signal is intended to help manage traffic during future construction or bridge closures.

Location reference:
https://www.google.com/maps/place/King+Street+Bridge+St+Augustine

The King Street Bridge is a heavily used route for:

• Local residents
• Businesses
• Visitors traveling into downtown

Traffic detours during construction could affect commute times and access to nearby areas.

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Why FDOT Is Evaluating Repair Option

Transportation officials are reviewing the repair option in part to reduce disruption for:

• Residents
• Businesses
• Daily commuters

A short-term repair could allow the bridge to remain in service longer while giving FDOT additional time to finalize replacement plans and funding.

FDOT confirmed it is still evaluating both options and has not made a final determination.

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Bridge Is Part of Key Downtown Transportation Corridor

The King Street Bridge plays an important role in St. Augustine’s transportation network, providing access between:

• Downtown St. Augustine
• U.S. 1
• Residential neighborhoods
• Commercial areas

The bridge also connects drivers to major routes serving St. Johns County and surrounding areas.

St. Johns County transportation information:
https://www.sjcfl.us/

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What Residents Can Expect Next

FDOT is expected to:

• Complete its structural evaluation
• Decide whether to proceed with repairs or full replacement
• Provide updated construction timelines

If repairs move forward, the bridge would temporarily close for construction before reopening.

If full replacement proceeds, construction would likely take significantly longer and involve extended detours.

No construction start date has been officially announced.

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Why This Matters for Residents and Businesses

Bridge closures or construction could affect:

• Traffic patterns
• Commute times
• Downtown access
• Local business traffic

Residents who regularly use the bridge may want to monitor updates and plan alternate routes if closures are announced.

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Key Facts Summary

Bridge: King Street Bridge
Location: St. Augustine, Florida
Managing agency: Florida Department of Transportation
Replacement cost estimate: $13.4 million
Current status: Repair option under consideration
Final decision: Pending