The Sunshine Skyway Bridge, officially known as the Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge, is an iconic cable-stayed bridge on Florida’s west coast. This architectural marvel spans Tampa Bay and connects St. Petersburg in Pinellas County to Terra Ceia in Manatee County, serving as a critical part of Interstate 275 (I-275).
Location
The bridge crosses the lower end of Tampa Bay, linking the Gulf of Mexico to the west with the city of Tampa to the northeast.
Facts
- Total Length: The entire bridge, including its approaches, spans a total of 21,877 feet (about 4.1 miles or 6.7 kilometers).
- Height: The bridge’s peak navigational clearance is 180 feet (55 meters), allowing large maritime vessels to pass underneath.
- Completion: The current bridge opened to traffic on April 20, 1987.
- Design: It features a cable-stayed main span, with the roadway held aloft by cables extending from two colossal pylons.
- Awards: The design has earned the bridge several awards, including recognition from the American Institute of Steel Construction and the American Society of Civil Engineers.
- History: It replaced an older cantilever bridge that was partially destroyed in 1980 when the freighter MV Summit Venture collided with a support column during a storm.
Website Link
For more information about the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, including its history and structural details, you might visit the Florida Department of Transportation’s website or a dedicated webpage about the bridge:
Florida Department of Transportation – Sunshine Skyway Bridge
Opening Hours
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is open 24 hours a day, year-round, as it is part of an interstate highway system.
Things to Do
Driving and Sightseeing
- Scenic Drive: Take a drive over the bridge to enjoy breathtaking views of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
- Photography: There are rest areas on both the north and south sides of the bridge, which can serve as good spots for photography.
Fishing and Recreation
- Fishing Piers: The old bridge’s remains have been converted into the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, the longest fishing pier in the world.
- Pier Facilities: Visitors to the piers can find bait shops, restrooms, and picnic areas.
Nearby Attractions
- Beaches: Visit the beautiful beaches in the St. Petersburg and Sarasota areas.
- Parks: Explore Fort De Soto Park, Egmont Key State Park, and other nearby nature reserves.
Tips For Visiting
- Toll Payments: The bridge is tolled, so be prepared to pay the fee or use a SunPass.
- Weather Conditions: High winds can sometimes affect travel over the bridge; check the weather and advisory signs.
- Safety: Keep your eyes on the road while driving; the views can be distracting.
- Fishing Pier Hours: If planning to visit the fishing piers, check for the current hours and any specific regulations.
Conclusion
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is not only a vital transportation link but also a symbol of Florida’s ingenuity and commitment to blending infrastructure with natural beauty. The bridge offers a memorable driving experience with its sweeping vistas and serves as a fantastic spot for fishing and enjoying the coastal environment. Whether you’re passing through or visiting the area, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge is a must-see engineering feat and a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Sunshine State.
