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Dames Point Bridge lane closures: FDOT says work being done out of sight, under bridge

Many drivers have called Action News Jax asking why they never see workers on the Dames Point Bridge despite lanes being closed.

The Florida Department of Transportation said there is progress, but most of the work being done is out of sight underneath the bridge.

The Dames Point Bridge on the Interstate 295 East beltway connecting the southside to North Jacksonville is heavily traveled every day.

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Since January, one lane on each side of the bridge has been closed. Hampton Ray with FDOT said it’s because of a $4.5 million project to make the bridge strong and safer.

“Basically the joints where the bridge connects, they’re working on that,” Ray said.

Action News Jax was now allowed to get video under the bridge. FDOT said the Dames Point is considered a special structure, so the Department of Homeland Security won't allow our cameras up close.

FDOT said the temporary permanent lane closure isn’t something it likes to do, but it's needed to keep drivers and the working crews safe

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“It’s not something that we don’t enjoy doing, we don’t want to inconvenience people. It’s a short term inconvenience for a long-term solution. This is going to add life to the bridge," Ray said.

FDOT is hopeful the projects will be completed and those lanes will be back open in May.