How the old Seven Mile Bridge in the Florida Keys changed from danger to showpiece
In 1982, a wider and safer Seven Mile Bridge opened to traffic in the Florida Keys. But the old bridge was never forgotten.
The original bridge remained a landmark, running alongside the new one in Marathon. Cars were allowed on portions. People fished off the railings.
It was built as the railway bed for Henry Flagler’s overseas train. After the hurricane of 1935 washed away sections, it was converted to a bridge for cars as the only way in and out of the Lower and Middle Keys.
But it was narrow. A bit harrowing. Unsafe.
With the rise of the new and safer Seven Mile Bridge, the old bridge kept its place in history, but transformed into a recreational spot. A few years ago, it closed for repairs. In January, 2022, it reopened for walkers, skaters, bicycle riders, with enhanced safety features.
With both bridges up and running again, let’s look back at the original, told through these old photos from the Miami Herald archive:
Boat race
Crash
Warning
The arches
Fred the tree
History of the highway
In need of repairs
Changing rules
The view
The reopening
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