U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Brandon) has sent a letter to Transportation Secretary Duffy in support of Manatee County’s application for federal funding to expand the Fort Hamer Bridge. The project aims to widen the bridge from two lanes to four, add pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and improve access for freight and emergency vehicles.
“The proposed project will expand the bridge from two lanes to four, add safe pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and improve access for freight and emergency vehicles,” writes Buchanan in the letter. “These improvements will reduce crashes, cut travel delays and provide essential relief for I-75, an especially critical need during hurricane evacuations. During Hurricane Milton in 2024, the Fort Hamer Bridge served as a lifeline for thousands of families under evacuation orders.”
Manatee County Commissioner George Kruse commented on the importance of the project: “This project is vital to the future of Manatee County. Expanding the Fort Hamer Bridge will improve hurricane evacuations, connect residents to jobs and healthcare, and strengthen our supply chains. With Congressman Buchanan’s strong backing, we are confident this investment will deliver lasting benefits for the entire region.”
The county is seeking funds through the Bridge Investment Program (BIP), which supports projects that replace or rehabilitate bridges at risk of falling into poor condition. The grant application submitted by Manatee County staff in October 2024 requests $61.6 million toward construction costs; total expenses for widening Fort Hamer Road from Upper Manatee River Road to U.S. 301 are estimated at $190.5 million.
In his letter, Buchanan noted that rapid population growth east of I-75 has led to capacity issues since the bridge opened in 2017—one of only four crossings over the Manatee River—and emphasized its role during emergencies such as Hurricane Milton.
He also highlighted broader economic impacts: “Beyond safety, the project will support the region’s strong economic growth. The bridge connects residents to jobs, schools, healthcare, including two planned hospitals in Parrish, as well as providing an alternate route that relieves congestion on I-75, a major freight corridor. By improving mobility and access, the project will strengthen supply chains and support continued prosperity in Manatee County.”
Buchanan further stated that local matching funds have been committed by Manatee County and cited their record with federally funded projects.
Vern Buchanan has represented Florida’s 16th Congressional District since 2007 after replacing Katherine Harris [source]. He previously served in Florida’s House of Representatives [source]. Born in Detroit in 1951 and currently residing in Sarasota [source], Buchanan holds degrees from Cleary University (1975) and University of Detroit Mercy (1986).
Buchanan concluded his appeal by thanking Secretary Duffy for advancing transportation investments that improve safety and support growing communities.
