The new pedestrian bridge in Clearwater Beach is now open to the public. This, long awaited, construction of the Mandalay Pedestrian Bridge is finally complete and many people are taking advantage of the link from the Memorial Causeway to Clearwater Beach. The bridge provides a safe and scenic access for people who to walk, jog, or bike to and from the beach area.

And the best part about it is that it didn’t cost the taxpayers any money out of their pocket. The new $2.4 million structure was built with 100% federal funding. The bridge provides an important link of the Ream Wilson East-West trail, a designated National Recreation Trail that connects Clearwater Beach to Tampa Bay. The trail, when complete, will provide 14 miles of paved non-motorized pathways for pedestrians. Future phases will include the Beach Connector Trail connecting Clearwater Beach with the Pinellas Trail, and the Druid Trail connecting the Pinellas and Progress Energy Trails. The connecting trails, totaling 6 miles, will be built in four phases.

The first trail is now open during daylight hours for non-motorized users such as walkers, joggers, runners, skates, and cyclists. So, if you haven’t been to the beach in awhile, now is a great time to visit. While you are here take a look at all the fantastic deals in Clearwater Beach Condos.