The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) opened the new Howard Frankland Bridge to traffic on March 25, completing a major phase of the $865 million I-275 corridor upgrade. The project replaced the 1960s-era northbound span and expanded capacity between Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.
FDOT delivered the project using a design-build model, with construction beginning in 2020. FDOT used a design-build delivery model for the project, which broke ground in 2020 and is expected to reach full completion in 2026.The selected design-build team included SGL Constructors, a joint venture of Skanska, Granite, and Lane.
The new bridge carries eight lanes—four general-purpose lanes and four express toll lanes, two in each direction. The express lanes are scheduled to open at a later date. FDOT designed all lanes to be available for emergency use during hurricane evacuations.
The bridge includes a 12-foot-wide shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists, which is expected to open in spring 2026. The path will connect 4th Street in Pinellas County with Reo Street in Hillsborough County and feature four shaded overlooks with seating.
With over 250,000 vehicles crossing the bridge daily, the upgrade aims to reduce congestion and improve regional connectivity. FDOT designed the new structure with enhanced durability features, including wider concrete barriers and corrosion-resistant materials, to achieve a 100-year lifespan.