The Courtney Campbell Scenic Highway and Trail are symbols of the collaboration of local, regional and state governmental agencies, public- and private-sector partners. Hundreds daily enjoy the beaches, boat launch, vistas and fishing opportunities along this 9.5-mile causeway across Old Tampa Bay. Over 50,000 cars per day traverse the causeway, and the newly opened Trail is a fantastic recreational opportunity for walkers, bicyclists, runners, bird-watchers and all who want to enjoy the peaceful water and wildlife views of Tampa Bay.
When the Courtney Campbell Causeway was constructed, it was one of the longest over-water fill causeways in the country. The water quality in the waters north of the Causeway have long been a concern due to the decreased circulation. In 2018, the Department of Transportation finished construction of a 230 foot section of bridge, allowing a direct tidal connection to this section of Old Tampa Bay for the first time in more than 80 years.