HENDRY COUNTY — The following column is the Road Watch report for Hendry County for the week beginning Sunday, Aug. 9, provided by the Florida Department of Transportation.

S.R. 29 (Bridge Street) LaBelle Drawbridge over the Caloosahatchee River: Bridge repair project: The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will perform repairs to the LaBelle Drawbridge, requiring full weekend bridge closures and vehicle restrictions in Hendry County.

• Commercial vehicles weighing more than 17 tons are not permitted to cross the bridge until the weight restriction is lifted.
• Commercial trucks must continue using the designated regional detour via S.R. 78, U.S. 27, and S.R. 80 until further notice.
• Law enforcement officers will be stationed at both bridge approaches to assist with traffic control and enforce vehicle restrictions. Motorists should expect delays, follow posted detour signage, and use alternate routes whenever possible.

Districtwide Movable Bridges (Hendry County): Construction Project: The Florida Department of Transportation began installing Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) at S.R. 29 (Bridge Street) Caloosahatchee River Bridge (Labelle) in Hendry County. This project includes the installation of pedestrian/bicycle detection systems, conduits and electrical components, and connection to bridge tender buildings.

• Testing will begin in early February 2026.
• Motorists are advised that there will be intermittent sidewalk and lane closures throughout the duration of construction.
• Motorists should expect lane closures during the nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.
• Motorists are advised to use caution in the construction zone.
• Variable message signs will be in place to alert drivers that work is underway. Estimated completion of testing is in late May 2026, weather permitting.

As a reminder, travelers can visit www.FL511.com or dial “511” from their phone to learn about traffic conditions on major roadways across the state.