Lakeshore Drive, Mid-Bay Bridge interchange seasonal road closure begins

NICEVILLE, Fla. – White Point Road and Lakeshore Drive are closed to through traffic on Saturday afternoons, May 29 – September 4, 2021. The closure takes place each year between Memorial Day and Labor Day to maintain traffic safety and relieve residents on these roads from traffic congestion as a result of motorists seeking a detour to the Mid-Bay Bridge.

The Saturday afternoon closures will take place from approximately 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.  (Note: the hours reflect the update announced July 8, 2021). Planning authorities want to remind motorists that the start and end time are approximate due to fluctuations in traffic volume.

“The seasonal lane-closure has improved traffic flow year-after-year, thanks to the cooperation and advanced planning of multiple agencies; notably the good work of the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s deputies who monitor and enforce the traffic changes,” said Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners Vice Chairman Mel Ponder.

“Keeping the community informed and planning ahead are pertinent to the safety of motorists and residents alike.”

The traffic congestion is brought about primarily by southbound tourism traffic on State Road 293 toward the Mid-Bay Bridge taking detours through residential neighborhoods.

Message boards along State Road 20 and State Road 293 activate at approximately 11 a.m. on closure day, alerting motorists of the temporary closure. Okaloosa County Sheriff’s deputies manage the blockade and patrol the area.