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February 12, 2026
Re: Old Tampa Road Gate Reconstruction of Gate House
Dear Residents,
As you are aware, the demolition and reconstruction of the Old Tampa Road Gate House is approaching. The side portocos will be removed allowing easy access by trucks to the guest lane, and allow 2 open lanes on the exit side in addition to upgrades to the lanes on both sides.
The work will start on Thursday, February 19, at 8 am, and is expected to be completed in 5 business days.
To accomodate the work that is being done including equipment and staff, and for the safety of residents and all involved, the following protocol will be in place:
| 1. |
The Old Tampa Road gates will be closed from 8 am to 6 pm each day. |
| 2. |
Vendors will be allowed entrance into River Wilderness at Old Tampa Road from 7am to 8 am during this time. |
| 3. |
At 8 am, the Old Tampa Road gate will be closed and barriers will be put in place with “Road Closed” signs. At that point, all traffic entering and exiting RW will utilize the Fort Hamer Gate until 6pm, when a single lane on each side at the OTR gate is reopened. |
| 4. |
From 8am to 6pm, the guard at the OTR gate will relocate to the Fort Hamer gate to assist with traffic entering and exiting at the FH gate. |
| 5. |
We are meeting on Monday with Islands Board members & Security team to talk through the logistics of increased traffic at the FH gate. Utilizing the additional guard during those hours, we are exploring the opportunity to set up a laptop with the Envera database at the FH gate to ID guests, outside golfers, and vendors entering. . If we are not able to transfer that data, we will utilize the pass system that is in effect for Island’s residents. We will confirm all specifics after the meeting on Monday. For RW residents, using the FH gate will not present any issues. |
Please remember that the speed limit on the Islands roads is 15mph. If you are not used to using the FH gate, you will note that once you turn onto Islands Estate Drive, there are speed bumps and the giant oak circle, so the speed signs there read 15mph, and you need to proceed with caution, travel the posted direction around the circle at Islands Estate Drive and Harbourside, as you head through the Islands and towards the FH gate. Please share these instructions with any guests coming in during this time that are not accustomed to using the FH gate.
We understand and appreciate that a project of this magnitude is an inconvenience to residents, but this renovation is for the betterment of our entire community, increasing safety and efficiency as well as a welcome face lift to the OTR entrance.
We ask for your patience during these construction days as well as your caution while driving through the community.
We will continue to update residents next week and as we move through this project. If you have any concerns, please contact the board at rwboard@rwhoa.org
Thank you for your cooperation.
Regards,
River Wilderness of Bradenton Foundation
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