The Judge S.S. Jolley Bridge, first known as the Marco Pass Bridge, has become a welcome landmark to many tourists who have been wooed to make Marco Island their home.

Photo by ROGER LALONDE

Eagle staff

An aerial photo of the Judge S.S. Jolley Bridge.

Story: Judge S.S. Jolley Bridge: Impressive span’s days are likely numbered (07-06-07)

The bridge was constructed in 1969 and officially named Judge S.S. Jolley Bridge for Smead Jolley, a prominent county judge. It became the second entranceway to Marco, the first being a draw bridge that led from U. S. 41 down SR 92 to Goodland and then Marco Island. The draw bridge was used until 1969 when the Jolley Bridge opened, then a new concrete bridge at Goodland was constructed in 1975.

The Jolley bridge cut 12 miles off the drive to Naples. In the early days the only way to get to Marco was by ferry from the Isles of Capri or going over the bridge, still called the Goodland Bridge. The S.S. Jolley Bridge is made of massive concrete piers, supporting a 1,500-foot long span.

There have been plans for years to add two more lanes to the bridge. The state is in charge of building a new bridge, with much speculation when and what funds will be used. A suggestion that Marco Island approve a toll bridge to move the project ahead has become controversial.

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