FORT WALTON BEACH — The state Department of Transportation will start work Monday to replace the Gap Creek bridge on Beal Parkway.
The DOT has awarded the $3.3 million construction contract to Anderson Columbia to replace the bridge that empties into Cinco Bayou and rebuild the road approaches.
“The plan is to keep all four lanes of traffic going at all times,” DOT spokesman Donna Green said. “ … There should not be impacts to businesses during the construction.”
As of Thursday, several businesses along Beal had received fliers from the DOT describing the project, which is expected to be completed in the winter of 2014.
Some business owners are concerned about how the flow of traffic will affect their customers.
“I don’t think it’ll affect us too much, but it will probably be an inconvenience,” said Colin Smith, general manager at the U-Haul dealer near the bridge. “I’m hoping not.”
The project also includes improving pedestrian features and drainage systems, and installing new signs and pavement markings.
Drivers will encounter overnight and intermittent lane restrictions. Lane closures will take place only between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., DOT officials said.
For more information, follow the Florida Department of Transportation District Three on Twitter @MyFDOT_NWFL.
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Kari C. Barlow at 850-315-4438 or kbarlow@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @KariBnwfdn.