New Cortez Bridge construction to start in June; some businesses concerned about project

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Crews are set to begin construction this summer on a new Cortez Bridge.

It’s a $128 million project to replace the span connecting Bradenton to Anna Maria Island.

What You Need To Know

  • Construction for the Cortez Bridge Project is to begin in June 2026.
  • According to FDOT, it will take four years for the new Cortez Bridge to be completed.
  • Officials say regular repairs are no longer an effective or long-term option. Instead, crews will begin building a four-lane bridge this summer.

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