LAKE MONROE DRAWBRIDGE PAINTING
Spanning the broad waters of Lake Monroe along the St. Johns River in Seminole County, the Lake Monroe Railroad Bridge stands as a quiet but critical link in
Central Florida’s transportation network. Positioned near the historic waterfront of Sanford, this structure has long supported the movement of freight through the
Region while coexisting with one of Florida’s most scenic river systems. Built to withstand shifting water levels, humidity, and decades of environmental exposure,
the bridge reflects the balance between industrial function and the surrounding natural landscape—where rail, water, and community intersect. This project focused
on restoring the operational reliability, structural integrity, and long-term durability of a movable railroad drawbridge operating over the St. Johns River.
Unlike fixed structures, this bridge is a mechanical system as much as a structural one—every component must work in sync to safely open for marine traffic
and close for rail operations.
- OWNER: Florida Department of Transportation
- PROJECT NO: 436436-1-52-13 /DOT-RFP-22-5007-LMBP
- DURATION: 10 months
- COMPLETION DATE: September 2023
- WORK PERFORMED:
- Rehabilitated mechanical systems (motors, gears, bearings) to restore span movement
- Upgraded electrical controls and safety systems for reliable operation
- Completed structural steel repairs and applied protective coatings for corrosion resistance
- Restored rail alignment, deck components, and counterweight balance systems
- Performed substructure and over-water repairs under active rail and marine conditions
