The announcement five years in the making has finally arrived. The Old 7 Mile Bridge connecting the town of Marathon to Pigeon Key is officially open to the public! In the summer of 2016, the 2-mile span of bridge was shut down to pedestrians in anticipation of the $41 million rehabilitation project. This bridge is a living portion of Henry Flagler’s original Overseas Railway.
The Pigeon Key staff is excited to announce the opening of this historic feat. It was a combination of efforts made by the State of Florida, Monroe County, Department of Transportation and our Friends of Old Seven.
Pigeon Key is a non-profit organization (Pigeon Key Foundation) who does not receive government support of any kind. The island has a small staff that is in charge of maintaining the historical significance of Pigeon Key, runs our marine science programming, summer camps and the grounds.
Things to Know:
– The bridge is open to the public 7 days a week and the island is now accessible for walkers, bikers and runners.
– Pigeon Key Operating Hours: The ramp to access the island will be open daily from 9am-5pm.
– Length: 2 miles to Pigeon Key & 2 miles back to Marathon – full walk is 4 miles total.
– Ferry Tours will still be operating at 10am, 12pm and 2pm for island tour guests out of the Faro Blanco Marina.
– If visitors accessing the island from the bridge would like to reserve a spot on our daily historical tours, please call our Visitors Center at 305-743-5999.
– Pets are not allowed on Pigeon Key. We are a flightless bird rehabilitation center. There are no exceptions to this rule.
– Fishing from the bridge is not allowed.
– No motorized vehicles are allowed on the bridge.
We thank you in advance for respecting the island grounds and buildings that are closed to the public. Later in 2022, we will be transitioning into transporting visitors to and from the island via a trolley. Keep an eye out on our Facebook or Instagram accounts for more up-to-date information.
