Bridge woes in Santa Rosa County

The Pensacola Bay Bridge will have to be replaced in the next six years.

The Navarre Causeway Bridge only has 10 more years of life expactancy.

Garcon Point Toll Bridge isn't gernerating enough revenue to make the bond payment.

With limited state and federal funding for transportation projects, the Florida Department of Transportation has instated a policy requiring all projects to explore the feasibility of tolls to fund new expansions like the three-mile bridge.

Santa Rosa County Commissioners also will explore the possibility of tolling Navarre Causeway when it is time to rebuild.

The Santa Rosa Bay Bridge Authority has reconvened for the first time since the Garcon Point Bridge went into default for failing to make the hefty band payments. Garcon Point toll is $3.75 each way making it the most expensive toll bridge in Florida.

While tolling may be the easiest solution for the state, Santa Rosa County residents are concerned how the excessive tolls will affect their daily commutes to work and school.

For more on this story, see the Jan. 5 issue of Navarre Press, or subscribe online.