Mount Dora to implement 85-cent toll on new Donnelly Street bridge upon its completion

UPDATE:  HAPPY APRIL FOOLS' DAY!! 
Local officials announced that a 85-cent toll will be implemented on Mount Dora’s new bridge being constructed to replace a washed-out section of North Donnelly Street, caused by a severe storm in October 2025.  Emergency vehicles, as well as school buses, will be exempt from the toll.  

The storm caused significant erosion and structural failure along a key corridor, prompting emergency response measures and a longer-term reconstruction plan. While partial outside funding for the project was secured, Central Florida Toll Enhancement Authority (CFTEA) officials say the toll is necessary to offset remaining costs and avoid increasing property taxes for residents. 

The cost of the reconstruction project is $2,011,500 of which $1,167,505 will be covered by the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The shortfall will be funded with the tolls.  Once the remaining $843,995 is raised by the toll revenue, the bridge will become free to use. 

“The existing transponders used on Florida toll roads will collect the tolls on Mount Dora’s new bridge,” said Cole Lecter, the public information officer for CFTEA.  “Sensors mounted on the current pedestrian bridge will scan the cars’ transponders and license plates.”

Construction on the replacement bridge began last month and is progressing on an accelerated schedule. Crews are working around the clock over a 32-day period to restore connectivity as quickly as possible. The project is currently anticipated to be completed by May 2026, barring any unforeseen delays.

For safety reasons, access to the construction zone remains restricted. Motorists are advised to follow posted detour routes, which remain toll-free during the duration of the project.  Learn more about how the toll revenue will be spent here.

The project’s contractor has more than 50 years of experience in bridge replacement, highway construction, and paving, and is expected to bring specialized expertise to what officials describe as a complex reconstruction effort.

The toll is expected to take effect as soon as the bridge opens to traffic. Further details regarding payment methods and implementation timelines can be found here.

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