$9.7 Million Sea Ray Bridge on Merritt Island Nears Reopening After Years of Closure

By Space Coast Daily // December 19, 2025

After Hurricane Irma Closure, Sea Ray Bridge Set to Reconnect Merritt Island

The long-awaited reopening of the Sea Ray Bridge on Merritt Island has been delayed, with county officials now saying the bridge will reopen no earlier than this weekend rather than during a previously announced soft opening this afternoon.

BREVARD COUNTY • MERRITT ISLAND, FLORIDA – The long-awaited reopening of the Sea Ray Bridge on Merritt Island has been delayed, with county officials now saying the bridge will reopen no earlier than this weekend rather than during a previously announced soft opening this afternoon.

According to Brevard County, the delay is due to a scheduling conflict involving the removal of remaining construction equipment. Crews must fully clear the site before the bridge can safely reopen to motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians.

The Sea Ray Bridge replacement project represents a $9.7 million investment and restores a critical transportation link that had been unusable since Hurricane Irma caused significant damage in 2017.

The closure forced residents and commuters to rely on longer alternate routes for several years while funding and planning for the replacement structure were finalized.

Construction on the new bridge began in July 2024 along Sea Ray Drive, connecting North Banana River Drive to North Courtenay Parkway (State Road 3). The bridge spans Sykes Creek and re-establishes a key east–west corridor on Merritt Island, improving local traffic flow and access for surrounding neighborhoods.

The newly constructed bridge features two 12-foot travel lanes, 7.5-foot shoulders, and an 8-foot shared-use path designed to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists.

The shared-use path is separated from vehicle traffic by a protective barrier, enhancing safety for all users and reflecting updated design standards for multimodal transportation.

County officials emphasized that the brief delay is necessary to ensure the bridge opens in a safe and fully operational condition. Brevard County also thanked residents and commuters for their patience throughout the lengthy funding and construction process, noting that the completed bridge is a durable, reliable structure intended to serve the community for decades to come.

An exact reopening date is expected to be announced once final site work is completed and safety checks are finalized.