The Overseas Highway, also known as the overseas road, is one of the most impressive feats of modern engineering. It is considered one of the most scenic routes in the United States, stretching for 113 miles and traversing 44 islands. This highway connects Florida to the Keys, from Key Largo to Key West. It crosses a series of bridges that seem to float on the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico (Faster Capital, n.d.; Tracey, 2023).

So, learn about the reasons behind its creation, the process of building this remarkable highway, and the benefits it has brought to the region.

Origin and reasons for the construction of the Overseas Highway

Now, the origin of the Overseas Highway can be traced back to the vision of Henry Flagler, a railroad magnate, who in the early twentieth century expanded his Florida East Coast Railway to Key West. This expansion, completed in 1912, was a monumental effort that challenged the natural barriers of the keys. However, in 1935, a devastating hurricane destroyed much of this railway line, disrupting the connection (Tracey, 2023).

Instead of rebuilding the railway, it was decided to take advantage of the existing structures to create a road. This decision was motivated by the need for a more accessible and resilient transportation route. The road allows for smoother traffic that drives the economic and tourist development of the keys (Tracey, 2023).

Highway construction process

Construction of the highway officially began in 1937. The process went through three main stages (Tracey, 2023; Noticias.Info, 2023; Cubanet, 2023):

  • Meticulous planning. It was planned to reuse the viaducts and the structures of the destroyed railway. To do this, it is They considered various factors, such as hurricane resistance and preservation of the marine environment.
  • The construction of bridges. The most prominent is the Seven Mile Bridge, a colossal structure that stretches 11 kilometers above the ocean. In addition to other bridges, such as the Long Key Bridge and the Bahia Honda Bridge. For its construction, They used advanced engineering techniques and materials resistant to salt water corrosion.
  • Its completion and opening. Construction was completed in 1938 and the Overseas Highway was inaugurated that same year.

Benefits of the Overseas Highway for Florida’s Development

Overseas Highway
Overseas Highway

This highway has revolutionized mobility in the Florida Keys. It is a work that facilitates land transportation and allows the constant flow of residents, tourists and goods. In addition, the road has fostered the development of the tourism industry, one of the main sources of income in the region. For Keys residents, the highway has significantly improved the quality of life. It facilitates access to essential services such as health care, education, and emergency services (Tracey, 2023).

Even for those interested in looking for housing in the United States, the region offers numerous possibilities to
invest in Miami
. PFS Realty’s offering includes real estate investment projects such as Lakewood Cove and Elle Residences Miami. These are options that promise a financial return and the possibility of being part of a thriving and vibrant community.

The Overseas Highway is a masterpiece of civil engineering that has transformed the Florida Keys region. From its planning to its construction and the benefits it has brought. This road is a testament to human ingenuity and the ability to overcome challenges. Explore this wonder and take advantage of the connections that the highway allows. Consider real estate opportunities near this great work!

References

Cubanet. (2023, June 10). Overseas Highway: Flagler’s Legacy and the Odyssey That Changed Florida Forever. https://www.cubanet.org/entretenimiento/autopista-de-ultramar-el-legado-de-flagler-y-la-odisea-que-cambio-a-florida-para-siempre/#google_vignette

Faster Capital. (n.d.). Pacific Coast Highway and Breathtaking Views. https://fastercapital.com/es/palabra-clave/carretera-costa-pac%C3%ADfico-and-impresionantes-vistas.html

Noticias.Info. (2023, June 04). Overseas Highway, emblematic work of floating engineering. https://www.noticias.info/internacional/estados-unidos/overseas-highway-ingenieria-flotante/

Tracey, T. (2023, May 30). Overseas Highway: the marvel of floating engineering that crosses 44 islands (and that forever changed the state of Florida). BBC. https://www.bbc.com/mundo/vert-tra-65749857