New span of Howard Frankland Bridge opens

A new span of the Howard Frankland Bridge is now open to traffic, connecting St. Petersburg and Tampa. The opening marks a significant milestone in the years-long project aimed at easing congestion and improving travel between the two cities.

The bridge is one of the busiest stretches of interstate in Florida. The new span is expected to alleviate traffic pressure by adding four general-use lanes and four express lanes.

The new span of the Howard Frankland Bridge also includes a bicycle/pedestrian pathway separated from the roadway, which is still under construction. Image: Florida Department of Transportation.

Construction on the new span began in 2020. The Florida Department of Transportation oversaw the project, which cost an estimated $865.3 million. Officials said the new span incorporates several advanced engineering techniques to ensure durability and safety, including the use of high-strength concrete and advanced drainage systems.

“This new span of the Howard Frankland Bridge represents a major investment in the Tampa Bay region’s infrastructure,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue in a prepared statement. “It will not only improve traffic flow but also enhance safety and provide a more reliable transportation option for residents and visitors.”

The 5.8-mile stretch of Interstate 275 is still under construction. Screengrab: Google Maps.

While the opening of the new span is a cause for celebration, officials cautioned that work on the overall Howard Frankland Bridge project is still ongoing. The original northbound span, which was built in 1960, will be demolished and replaced with a new bridge. That phase of the project is expected to be completed in 2028.

The Howard Frankland Bridge project is part of a larger effort to improve transportation infrastructure throughout the Tampa Bay region. Other projects underway include the widening of I-275 and the construction of new express lanes. These investments are aimed at supporting the region’s continued growth and ensuring its long-term economic competitiveness.

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