Construction crews have begun constructing the temporary work trestles for the Brooks Bridge Replacement Project over the Santa Rosa Sound in Fort Walton Beach.

First reported in early May, these work trestles will be used as temporary platforms to support cranes and materials during the construction of both new bridge structures. Extending from each shoreline to the new center piers, these trestles provide an alternative to crane-mounted barges, eliminating the need for environmentally harmful dredging.

• To construct a strong foundation for the work trestle, steel piles are driven into the ground with the “vibratory hammer” shown in this photo, according to FDOT.

Next, crews will construct the work trestle bridge platform. According to FDOT, the temporary trestle will provide access for cranes and heavy equipment to reconstruct the bridge without the use of barges.

Throughout the construction period, the current Brooks Bridge will maintain its four lanes (two eastbound and two westbound) to ensure smooth traffic flow. The $171-million replacement project aims to increase the capacity of the bridge by constructing two new, parallel bridges, totaling six travel lanes. 

• This marks a significant expansion from the current four-lane bridge, which has been serving the community since its opening in 1966.

FDOT estimates that the Brooks Bridge replacement project will reach completion by summer 2027, bringing increased capacity and improved infrastructure to the region while minimizing environmental impact.