The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will close the Shands Bridge over the St. Johns River for routine maintenance this weekend, impacting drivers who use the crossing between Clay and St. Johns counties.
The closure begins at 9 p.m. Friday and is scheduled to end at 4 a.m. Monday.
FDOT cautioned that if additional work is necessary, the bridge could shutter again the following weekend.
While closed, travelers are advised to use the Buckman Bridge on Interstate 295 as a detour.
Drivers approaching from the west side of the St. Johns River will travel about 21 more miles through Clay County to reach the alternate span.
From the east side, motorists will face detours of nearly 30 miles.
In addition to the Shands closure, FDOT will also conduct paving work on State Road 16 between Mobro Marine in Green Cove Springs and the Shands Bridge.
Nearby single-lane closures will be in effect throughout the weekend.
The existing bridge — which opened in 1963 — is slated for replacement by 2030.
