New Brooks Bridge to feature 12-foot shared path with seating areas

Barrier wall construction underway for path separated from vehicle traffic with views of Santa Rosa Sound.
FDOT

Construction is underway on the barrier wall that will separate vehicle traffic from pedestrian and bicyclist traffic on the new westbound Brooks Bridge approach on Okaloosa Island.

The rebar visible in recent photos forms the framework for the future barrier wall. To the left of the barrier wall, a 12-foot shared use path will feature shaded seating areas for pedestrians and bicyclists to enjoy panoramic vistas of the Santa Rosa Sound.

The $171-million Brooks Bridge replacement project includes constructing two new, parallel bridge structures that will increase capacity to six travel lanes. The current bridge, which opened in 1966, has four lanes.

The Florida Department of Transportation is overseeing the project.

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Sue Schaeffler commented on WordroW: October 26, 2026
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