Fort Myers Live Cam

History

The Caloosahatchee Bridge, also known as the Edison Bridge, is a historic bridge located in Fort Myers, Florida, USA. It spans the Caloosahatchee River, connecting the downtown area of Fort Myers with North Fort Myers.

The bridge was completed in 1931 and was named after inventor Thomas Edison, who had a winter home in Fort Myers. It was designed by the engineering firm H.J. Brunnier Associates, and its construction was overseen by the Florida State Road Department.

The Caloosahatchee Bridge was considered an engineering marvel at the time of its construction, as it was one of the longest reinforced concrete bridges in the world. It was also an important transportation link in the region, as it provided the only road access between Fort Myers and North Fort Myers.

Over the years, the bridge underwent several renovations and upgrades to improve its structural integrity and traffic flow. In 1999, it was designated a historic landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Today, the Caloosahatchee Bridge remains an important transportation link in the Fort Myers area, and it is also a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. Its unique architecture and historical significance make it a beloved landmark of the community.

Honorary designation

In 2019, the Caloosahatchee Bridge, also known as the Edison Bridge, was designated as a Florida Heritage Site and received an honorary designation in honor of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The designation was made by the Florida Department of State's Bureau of Historic Preservation.

Thomas Edison and Henry Ford were both famous inventors who had winter homes in Fort Myers and were instrumental in the development of the region. They were also close friends, and their friendship played a significant role in shaping the history and culture of Fort Myers.

The honorary designation of the Caloosahatchee Bridge was a way to recognize the contributions of Edison and Ford and to highlight the importance of the bridge as a cultural and historical landmark. It also serves as a reminder of the rich history of Fort Myers and the many individuals who have made significant contributions to the community over the years.

Geography

The Caloosahatchee Bridge is located in Southwest Florida, spanning the Caloosahatchee River, which is a major waterway in the region. The bridge is part of U.S. Route 41, also known as the Tamiami Trail, which connects Miami on the east coast of Florida to Tampa on the west coast.

The Caloosahatchee Bridge is situated in Lee County, between the towns of North Fort Myers and Fort Myers. It is a four-lane bridge with a length of approximately 3,400 feet, or just over half a mile. The bridge provides an important connection between the two sides of the river and is a vital transportation link for the region.

In addition to its transportation significance, the Caloosahatchee Bridge is also an important landmark in the area, offering scenic views of the river and the surrounding landscape. The bridge is frequently used by both locals and visitors to the area, and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities.