This project involves the reconstruction of the Little Ringling (SR 789) bridges in Sarasota County. The proposed replacement for the bridge includes a single bridge with bicycle and pedestrian accommodations. The existing bridge currently has no shoulders or designated bicycle facilities across the bridge. SR 789 serves as the only connection from downtown Sarasota to St. Armands Key and Lido Key. The bridges cross Coon Key Waterway. The current bridges were constructed in 1958.

The purpose of this project is to address bridge deficiencies due to deteriorating conditions, improve multimodal (bicycle and pedestrian) transportation options between downtown Sarasota and St. Armands/Lido Key, and to improve emergency evacuation and response times. SR 789 is a critical part of the emergency evacuation route network, designated by the Florida Division of Emergency Management and the City of Sarasota. 

Location and Design Concept Acceptance (LDCA)

On November 4, 2024, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), pursuant to 23 U.S.C. § 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated May 26, 2022, and executed by FHWA and FDOT, granted Location and Design Concept Acceptance for Little Ringling (SR 789) from Bird Key Drive to Sarasota Harbour West. This project is now eligible to move to the next phase of development.

Public Hearing - March 21, 2024 (PD&E)

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) held a public hearing for the Little Ringling (SR 789) Project Development & Environment (PD&E) Study from Bird Key Drive to Sarasota Harbour West in Sarasota County on March 21, 2024. 

Alternatives Public Workshop - April 5, 2022 (PD&E)

FDOT held a public workshop for the Little Ringling (SR 789) PD&E Study, with a live in-person event on April 5, 2022 and a live virtual event on April 7, 2022. Materials were also available for review and comment through this website from March 29, 2022.