Mr. Joel Glenn
Environmental Management Office
Florida Department of Transportation
Post Office Box 1089
Lake City, Florida 32056-1089

July 16, 2003
Re: Bridge of Lions, St. Augustine, Florida

Dear Mr. Glenn,
Citizens for the Preservation of St. Augustine is a recently formed member organization of St. Augustine residents concerned with preserving our unique community and protecting its historic and scenic resources. The Bridge of Lions is one of the city’s most cherished icons and I am writing on behalf of our membership in support of the Florida Departments of Transportation’s intent to rehabilitate the bridge as described in Alternative 1A of the Environmental Impact Statement.

The choice to rehabilitate rather than replace the Bridge of Lions demonstrates both responsiveness to public opinion and sensitivity to the historic value of the bridge. FDOT is to be commended for expanding this rehabilitation project to include a beautification of both the east and west approaches.

The bridge is one of the few structures in St. Augustine that represents the Florida Land Boom, an important time in our history. The replication of the original light fixtures and railings will bring the Bridge of Lions back to its 1927 appearance, making this era well represented in the skyline of the ancient city.

Though the construction period will have a significant impact on our community, it is worth the price and inconvenience to preserve one of our most treasured features.

Thank you for this opportunity to comment. We look forward to participating in any future public meetings for this exciting project.

Sincerely,

Judith Fox-Fliesser, President
Citizens for the Preservation of St. Augustine