On Tuesday, Jan. 27, the lions known as Firm and Faithful will be removed from St. Augustine’s Bridge of Lions overnight due to the Florida Department of Transportation’s seawall replacement project. The project is expected to begin near Feb. 1.
The lions will return once the project is over, which is estimated to end in December of 2028. Although residents and visitors alike hate to see them go, they are in good hands and will be kept at a secure city facility. They will be carefully removed by the city’s contractor, LaRue House Movers & Sons Inc. During the National Park Service and City of St. Augustine Improvement Project, the lions will be restored by renowned local artists Joe Segal and Enzo Torcoletti.
Sadly, this isn’t the first time the lions have been removed due to reconstruction projects. In 2005, the lions were relocated for six years for a major rehabilitation project on the bridge and were returned in 2011.
Firm and Faithful have been a part of one of St. Augustine’s most iconic landmarks since the bridge opened. Once the bridge is restored, they will be reinstated and continue to be a reminder of the city’s rich history. Although they will be missed, they will be back before people know it, and in better shape than ever.
