Alligator Alley has been re-opened since a close call with a brush fire in the vicinity. The section of Interstate 75 from mile marker 101 to mile marker 80 in Collier County, commonly referred to as Alligator Alley, was closed due to a brush fire closing in on the area at mile marker 96. Motorist visibility was definitely one of the biggest concerns for the Florida Highway Patrol, especially since visibility can change within moments when dealing with a wildfire.
National, state and local officials were all battling the brush fire north of I-75 in the Everglades that ranged around 700 acres, according to a National Park Service Release. Luckily, no homes were in danger from this fire.
Alligator Alley was originally built by H.L. Mills Construction Company as a two-lane toll highway that connects the East and West coasts of Florida. Since it was the main route from Tampa to Miami, the route was widened to four lanes in the late 80s / early 90s. Bridges were formed underneath the highway in order to let wildlife pass under the road itself. The purpose of the bridges were to reduce the environmental impact, especially since many endangered species reside in that area.
Alligator Alley was named by the AAA when the road was being planned out. AAA employees believed that people wouldn’t actually travel on this road, leaving it to be traveled by the Everglades’ alligators. Since alligators are actually quite prevalent in the area, the strip of highway took on a quite literal meaning.
Here at Wild Florida, we are passionate about Florida wildlife, preserving the Everglades and Florida as a whole. We provide Orlando airboat rides, as well as a Wildlife Park experience, creating a half day experience for the entire family. If you’re interested in visiting us here at Wild Florida, book your tickets directly from our website.
