Good to know
Bridges & traffic
There are only three ways on and off the island, and traffic is the number one thing visitors grumble about. Check before you go.
Check traffic right now
Three ways on
- Anna Maria Island BridgeManatee Ave (SR 64)
Lands in Holmes Beach - Cortez BridgeCortez Rd (SR 684)
Lands in Bradenton Beach - Longboat Pass BridgeGulf Dr (SR 789)
Lands in Bradenton Beach from Longboat Key
Cortez Bridge replacement
- FDOT is replacing the Cortez Bridge. It is about a $123 million job planned at roughly 1,200 days. source
- It's built in two halves so traffic keeps moving. Traffic shifts onto the new north half first, expected by the end of 2026, and the second shift is expected in mid 2028. source
- Side streets near the bridge on the Cortez side are closed during prep work, and bridge construction was set to begin in November 2026. source
Other roadwork
- Crews are adding bike and pedestrian sensors on all three bridges. Expect some lane closures overnight, 7pm to 6am, through late 2026. source
Beat the backup
- Local tipWeekend late mornings are the worst, especially Saturdays. Sunset lets out a wave of traffic too. source
- Local tipOnce you're on the island, park and ride the free trolley. No bridge, no parking hunt.
Sources · checked 2026-09-30
- FDOT: Cortez Bridge project 430204-2
- The Islander RoadWatch, Sept 29, 2026
- TripAdvisor forum: Anna Maria Island bridges
Lines marked Local tip are what regulars and locals say, not official rules.