TAMPA BAY, Fla. — Been wondering about those “pyramids” near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge?

What You Need To Know

  • The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is installing 844 pyramid-shaped wave attenuation devices (WAD) near the Skyway Bridge

  • They’re designed to stop coastal erosion

  • There are also secondary benefits to the devices like habitats for sea life, seagrass and birds

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) now has answers.

The pyramid-shaped structures are called wave attenuation devices.

They’re designed to stop coastal erosion.

The WADs are made from fiber reinforced concrete, ranging from 8.5 to 10.5 feet. They weigh up to 13,000 pounds.

FDOT plans to install 844 of them in the waters near the Skyway Bridge over the next 2 to 3 months, weather pending. Many will be along the south Skyway Fishing Pier access road.

They are designed to be stationary and last a long time.

The WAD's will be placed in two locations. The array will run parallel 50-200ft off-shore and south of the new rest area and northwest of the access channel by the fishing pier. (Courtesy: FDOT)
The WAD's will be placed in two locations. The array will run parallel 50-200ft off-shore and south of the new rest area and northwest of the access channel by the fishing pier. (Courtesy: FDOT)

FDOT says it’s an environmental solution for shoreline protection from damaging wave energy.

“The project started as a way to deal with waves that splashed over the seawall, damaging the access road to the fishing pier and the guardrail that was there,” said FDOT engineer Brent Setchell.

Erosion is an issue in many areas around Florida, but so far this is the only place in the state that will see the WADs installed.

There are also secondary benefits to the devices like habitats for sea life, seagrass and birds.

The WADs are designed by Living Shoreline Solutions. View additional information about Living Shoreline Solutions WADs.