FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The City of Fort Lauderdale announced Thursday that weekday operating schedule changes for the Southeast 17th Street Bridge have become permanent after receiving approval from the U.S. Coast Guard.
The adjustments, first implemented on a temporary basis in June 2025, are designed to reduce the impact of bridge openings on rush-hour traffic while continuing to accommodate marine vessels along the busy Southeast 17th Street corridor.
Mayor Dean Trantalis thanked the Coast Guard for its partnership on the update.
“I want to thank the United States Coast Guard for working with the City on this update,” Trantalis said in a statement. “The permanent schedule helps ease congestion during the peak hours and improves quality of life for residents and motorists, while maintaining waterway access critical to our yachting community.”
Under the permanent weekday schedule, the bridge will continue to not open at 7:30 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 4:30 p.m., and 5:30 p.m., except on federal holidays. U.S. vessels and tugs with tows may still pass through at any time when giving the proper signal.
Commissioner Ben Sorensen said the change is already making a difference.
“These changes make a noticeable difference,” Sorensen said. “It means less congestion, improved safety and a smoother commute without sacrificing marine navigation.”
The Southeast 17th Street Bridge sits along one of Fort Lauderdale’s most heavily traveled corridors. Officials say the revised schedule is expected to continue reducing congestion during weekday morning and evening rush hours while maintaining safe passage for marine traffic.
The permanent schedule took effect Thursday.
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