Venetian Causeway’s east drawbridge to close Nov. 14 for repairs

Bicyclists, pedestrians and drivers who regularly cross the Venetian Causeway to and from Miami Beach: Prepare for another two-month headache.

The easternmost drawbridge of the Venetian Causeway, which connects Rivo Alto Island and Belle Isle, is closing for repairs on Nov. 14. The bridge is known for getting stuck while it’s open.

Commuters will not be able to cross until the work is done sometime around Dec. 29 — except for six days during Art Basel Miami Beach. From Nov. 30 through Dec. 5, the county plans to halt work so all traffic can flow between Miami and Miami Beach during the festivities.

Flashing signs alerting drivers of the upcoming closure are supposed to be placed in the area Friday.

Emergency response agencies have contingency plans in place to respond to any emergencies while the bridge is closed. The fixed bridge that connects Belle Isle to South Beach will also undergo repairs but won’t be completely closed. There will be lane closures.

All told, the work will cost about $2 million.

Meanwhile, cyclists will have to brave more dangerous alternate routes to cross the bay. The MacArthur and Julia Tuttle causeways are not bike-friendly.

This story was originally published October 13, 2016 at 5:22 PM with the headline "Venetian Causeway’s east drawbridge to close Nov. 14 for repairs."