Causeways deal or not, Bear Cut Bridge must be replaced

Miami Today, Published Week of Thursday, July 15, 2021

This article argues that the Bear Cut Bridge is well beyond its intended lifespan and poses a serious safety risk if replacement continues to be delayed. Despite inspections revealing deterioration in steel beams and underwater pilings as early as 2012, Miami-Dade County opted for temporary repairs rather than full replacement. The article warns that because the bridge is the only connection between the mainland and Key Biscayne, any forced closure could isolate the island for months.

Key points and arguments:

• The Bear Cut Bridge was already past its expected 70-year lifespan by 2013.

• Inspections found corrosion in steel beams and failing underwater pilings.

• Temporary repairs were chosen over a full replacement due to cost.

• A private proposal resurfaced bridge replacement but bundled it with tolls and redevelopment.

• The deal lacked transparency and raised concerns about toll increases and privatization.

• The article emphasizes that public safety should outweigh financial or political convenience.