Blackburn Point Rd Bridge

Blackburn Point Rd Bridge Osprey: A Comprehensive Guide

The Blackburn Point Bridge, located near Osprey, Florida, is a historic one-lane swing bridge that connects Blackburn Point Road to the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. Constructed in 1925, this unique piece of engineering has stood as a testament to the ingenuity of its time and remains a fully functional and significant part of the local infrastructure.

Serving as a vital connection between the mainland and the barrier islands, the bridge was built by the Champion Bridge Company of Wilmington, Ohio. Recognized for its cultural and historical significance, it has been listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Today, it offers visitors and locals alike a glimpse into the past while providing essential access to the beautiful coastline and surrounding communities.

Blackburn Point Rd Bridge Overview

Location and Coordinates

The Blackburn Point Rd Bridge is situated near Osprey, Florida, United States. It connects the mainland to Casey Key and crosses the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. The bridge's coordinates are N 27° 10.795' and W 082° 29.661'.

Historical Significance

The Blackburn Point Bridge holds a significant place in the history of Osprey and Sarasota County as it is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. The bridge became part of the register because it is one of the few remaining swing bridges in the state of Florida.

Construction and Design

Built with steel, the Blackburn Point Rd Bridge features a swing design, which allows it to rotate horizontally for boats to pass. The structure's length is 142.0 feet (43.3 meters), and its roadway width is 15.7 feet (4.79 meters). This single-lane bridge serves as one of the essential transportation links in Sarasota County.

Bridge Functionality

The Blackburn Point Bridge is a historic swing bridge located near Osprey, Florida, United States, and plays an essential role in both vehicular and marine traffic.

Clearance and Capacity

The bridge has a vertical clearance in its closed position of 9.00 feet. This clearance allows small boats to pass under it without any difficulties. However, larger vessels may need to wait for the bridge to open in order to pass through. The bridge is also a one-lane swing bridge, which means traffic may experience some delays, especially during peak hours, hence it is essential to manage the flow efficiently.

Boating and Marine Traffic Signals

To facilitate smooth maritime traffic and ensure the safety of both boaters and motorists, the Blackburn Point Bridge uses traffic signals for the marine traffic. When the bridge is about to open, a series of red and green lights are displayed to inform boaters of the bridge's status and whether or not it is safe to pass through. The green light indicates it is safe to proceed, while the red light signals that the boater should wait for the bridge to fully open.

Radio Communication

The bridge operator and the boating community can also communicate via radio to coordinate safe passage through the bridge's opening. This communication is an essential aspect of the bridge's functionality as it helps mariners avoid potential delays and ensures the swift passage of larger vessels. This radio communication also allows for any unforeseen issues or emergencies to be addressed immediately, ensuring the continued safety of all who use the Blackburn Point Bridge.

Surrounding Area

Blackburn Point Park and Water Access

Blackburn Point Park is a popular attraction located in Osprey, Florida. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and nature trails. Water access at the park allows visitors to enjoy fishing, kayaking, and boating in the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. This water access makes it a convenient location for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to spend time near the waterfront.

Casey Key and Albee Road

Casey Key is a barrier island connected to the mainland by the historic Blackburn Point Bridge. This picturesque island is known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious homes, and stunning natural environment. Albee Road is one of two access points to Casey Key and offers additional recreational opportunities such as parks, dining venues, and shopping options in the nearby community.

Nearby Community and Venice

The nearby community of Osprey, FL, boasts a rich history and offers a variety of amenities to both residents and visitors. Osprey provides shopping, dining, and lodging options, making it an ideal destination for exploring the local area. A short drive south from Osprey, the historic city of Venice offers an array of cultural attractions, including art galleries, museums, and theatres. Venice is well known for its local beaches and waterways, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and water sports.

Bridge Maintenance and Repairs

In May 2022, the Blackburn Point Swing Bridge in Osprey, near Casey Key, underwent repairs, which led to a temporary schedule for the bridge's operations source. The U.S. Coast Guard approved the bridge to open on the hour during this period. The repairs affected not only vehicle and pedestrian traffic but also boating traffic in the area.

As a result of these repairs, the Blackburn Point Bridge was closed to boating and marine traffic source. In addition, the bridge was closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic for a day to replace a primary mechanical element source. Maintenance and repairs ensured the 59-year-old swing bridge could continue to serve the community efficiently.

Overall, such maintenance and repairs are vital for securing the functionality and safety of the Blackburn Point Swing Bridge. Regular upkeep ensures the smooth operation of the bridge for vehicles, pedestrians, and marine traffic, contributing to the economic and residential activities in the Osprey area.

User Experience and Resources

Review and Feedback

Blackburn Point Rd Bridge in Osprey, Florida, is a historic swing bridge which many users, such as boaters and fisherman, seem to enjoy visiting due to its unique character. Both local residents and tourists have expressed positive feedback about the experience that the bridge provides. The bridge is operated with a hand crank and requires visitors to call the bridge master to open it – which adds an interesting element to the journey.

Available Information and Resources

For those seeking information about the Blackburn Point Rd Bridge, various resources provide relevant data. The Wikipedia page provides historical context and other pertinent background details. Google Maps and Google Search are essential tools for those trying to find specific information on how to access the bridge and its surrounding facilities.

Boaters can find detailed marina reviews, contact information, and docking options on Marinas.com. Additionally, the Blackburn Point Park TripAdvisor page provides helpful reviews from other visitors, ensuring a more informed and enjoyable experience.

Visitors and historians seeking high-quality images of the bridge may find visual resources on Wikimedia Commons. Nearby, the Health Care Center at Blackburn Point offers medical services for those in southern Sarasota, Osprey, Nokomis, Venice, Englewood, and neighboring communities.

With all these resources at your disposal, your visit to the Blackburn Point Rd Bridge and its surrounding area will be well informed and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the clearance of Blackburn Point Rd Bridge?

The Blackburn Point Rd Bridge is a historic one-lane swing bridge located at the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway near Osprey, Florida. The exact clearance is not provided in the available search results, but it is low enough that it needs to be opened for boats to pass through. The bridge connects the barrier island, Casey Key, to the mainland.

How do I contact the Blackburn Point Rd Bridge?

To get the bridge opened for boat traffic, you will need to call the bridgemaster. While there isn't an exact contact number provided in the search results, contacting local authorities such as Florida's Department of Transportation or Sarasota County may provide the information needed about the contact information for the swing bridge operator.

When was the Albee Road Bridge closed?

There is no information available in the search results about the Albee Road Bridge being closed. Please consider searching for updated information about the bridge, its status, and any related closures.

What are the ICW bridge clearances?

ICW (Intracoastal Waterway) bridge clearances vary depending on the location and the bridge type. It is necessary to consult a regional or local source for accurate information about specific bridge clearances along the ICW.

Which bridge clearances can be found in Florida?

Florida has numerous bridges with varying degrees of clearance, depending on their location, purpose, and design. For accurate information on specific bridge clearances in Florida, consult online resources or local authorities such as the Florida Department of Transportation or local marinas.

How does Blackburn Point Rd Bridge compare to Albee Road Bridge?

While information about the Albee Road Bridge is not readily available in the search results, the discussion here focused mainly on the historic Blackburn Point Rd Bridge located in Osprey, Florida. The Blackburn Point Rd Bridge is a unique one-lane swing bridge connecting Casey Key to the mainland. Comparisons on dimensions, clearances, and other features between the two bridges cannot be made from the available search results.