A comprehensive study conducted by marine engineering firm Cummins Cederberg has identified several of Sanibel Island’s most critical assets at risk from future flooding. The assessment analyzed vulnerabilities related to sea level rise, high tides, storm surge, rainfall, and compound flooding events.
The City of Sanibel Comprehensive Vulnerability Assessment was made possible by a $124,000 grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Resilient Florida Grant Program. This study is a mandatory step for the city to qualify for future state funding aimed at hardening infrastructure and protecting local landmarks.
Key Assets at Risk
The report identifies dozens of locations that require resiliency planning, including:
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Roadways: Major thoroughfares like Periwinkle Way.
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Public Facilities: The Sanibel Recreation Center.
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Natural Resources: J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and the Tarpon Bay Weir.
Next Steps for Resiliency
On December 16, the Sanibel City Council voted unanimously to integrate these findings into a formal adaptation plan. This plan, scheduled for completion in March 2027, will serve as a roadmap for minimizing flood impacts and protecting the community’s infrastructure and cultural heritage.
Residents and stakeholders can now view the full results of the study through the city’s official portal to better understand the long-term strategy for island preservation.
