The ferry crossing at Esterville-Minim Creek Canal on the iCW (Mile 411) has been replaced by a pontoon swing bridge – somewhat like the old Sunset Beach pontoon bridge that once crossed the ICW at Mile 338.
Waterway Guide Contributor Bill Hezlep reports that it rests against the east bank when open, and is pulled across the canal by cable until the free end comes to rest against a large, fendered dolphin on the west side (see photos). The bridge remains open to marine traffic unless a vehicle needs to cross. Watch for flashing yellow lights on sign to indicate an opening.
The Coast Guard 7th District Waterways Division has not yet returned calls for information, and we have found any notices to mariners of the change. I did speak with Jamie Dozier, Director at the Tom Yawkey Wildlife Refuge. He indicated that this bridge was completed 3 or 4 weeks ago and is currently being used. The bridge and the former ferry are only used by wildlife refuge personnel and equipment.
"It's used about two times a day...many days it's not used at all," said Dozier. He also said that the bridge is a lot faster than the ferry: "It swings open in about 20 seconds, and we can get everything across and back in 4 or 5 minutes.
See Navigation Update: Ferry replaced with pontoon swing bridge.
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