Miami-Dade County to start construction on Phase II of additional safety improvements on the Rickenbacker Causeway

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) continue to implement safety improvements along the Rickenbacker Causeway. The second phase of the planned enhancements will begin on April 24, 2023, along the Rickenbacker Causeway from Hobie Beach Park to Mast Academy, focusing on the driveway entrance to Hobie Beach.

“Safety has always been our number one priority in Miami-Dade County, especially along the Rickenbacker Causeway,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “This improvement project is a critical step in our commitment to ensuring the safety of our residents so that drivers, pedestrians and cyclists can continue to enjoy this scenic part of our county.”

The driveway entrance for Hobie Beach Park is located just east of the William Powell Bridge and currently creates a conflict point between cyclists and vehicles. In an effort to improve safety, DTPW will relocate the entrance approximately 350 feet east of its current location. The new entrance location will increase the distance between the bridge and the entrance which augments sight distance and advanced warning time for vehicles entering the park. Construction is expected to be completed by June 2023.

“DTPW is committed to improving safety throughout Miami-Dade County,” said DTPW CEO and Director Eulois Cleckley. “We are moving forward with the adjustments and construction of a much safer corridor which will benefit all users of the causeway and allow for an improved experience by all. This project truly advances our Vision Zero goal of significantly reducing and eradicating injuries on our roadways.”

In July of 2022, several safety improvements were completed on the west side of the William Powell Bridge as part of the first phase of this project. These improvements include limited access to the U-turn under the bridge, and the installation of delineators that restrict vehicles from turning through the dedicated bike lane.

Additionally, after a summer-long pilot program, the speed limit was reduced to 40 miles per hour (MPH) throughout the length of the Rickenbacker Causeway from the toll plaza to Calusa Circle on October 27, 2022. 

For project updates visit DTPW’s website or follow the Department on social media on Twitter, and Facebook.

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