Author: LeAneSUAREZGroup

The beloved Sanibel Pier, which sustained severe damage during Hurricane Ian, is now one step closer to being repaired thanks to a newly approved public/private partnership. The pier, a cherished spot for residents and visitors alike, has taken a backseat to other pressing recovery efforts, but its restoration is now gaining momentum.

Cost Estimates and Funding Plan
Public Works engineers estimate that repairing the pier will cost $651,000, while full replacement would require $1.2 million. Unfortunately, the pier was not insured. To address the repair costs, the City of Sanibel will contribute $223,000 toward demolition, leaving $428,000 to be raised through community efforts.

Sanibel Fishing Club member Robert Stern has stepped up, offering to spearhead a fundraising campaign to cover the remaining costs. This initiative highlights the community’s commitment to preserving one of the island’s most iconic landmarks.

Community Sentiment and Iconic Status
“The pier is near and dear to people’s hearts and something that’s missing from their lives on a daily basis,” said City Manager Dana Souza. He emphasized the pier’s role as an essential and beloved structure on the island, making its restoration a meaningful effort for the community.

Potential FEMA Reimbursement
There’s also hope for FEMA reimbursement to cover the demolition costs. If successful, the reimbursed funds would be allocated to a maintenance fund for the pier, ensuring its upkeep and longevity once repaired.

Council’s Unanimous Support
The Sanibel City Council unanimously approved the partnership, signaling strong support for the initiative. The collaboration between the City and the community represents the shared dedication to bringing the pier back to life.

This fundraising effort is not just about rebuilding a structure; it’s about restoring a vital piece of Sanibel’s heritage and creating a lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy.

Stay tuned for updates on the fundraising progress and opportunities to get involved in this meaningful project. Together, we can bring the Sanibel Pier back to its full glory!

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) achieved remarkable milestones in 2024, closing the year with 11,028,182 passengers, a 6.6% increase from the previous record set in 2022. This achievement underscores the airport’s growing popularity among travelers.

In December alone, 1,121,793 passengers passed through RSW, marking a 2.5% increase compared to December 2023. It was the busiest December in the airport’s 42-year history.

Top Airlines in December 2024

• Delta Air Lines: 212,801 passengers
• Southwest Airlines: 171,903 passengers
• United Airlines: 164,722 passengers
• American Airlines: 147,042 passengers
• JetBlue: 110,179 passengers

Aircraft operations at RSW also increased by 5%, totaling 10,362 operations in December. However, Page Field saw a 24% decrease in operations compared to December 2023, with 11,109 total operations.

Executive Remarks
Steven Hennigan, Executive Director and CEO of the Lee County Port Authority, shared his gratitude:
“December 2024 was a milestone for RSW, thanks to the dedication of our employees, airline partners, and business stakeholders. We also extend our thanks to passengers who continue to choose RSW as their airport of preference.”

About RSW and Page Field
RSW is one of the top 50 U.S. airports for passenger traffic and serves millions of travelers annually without the use of property taxes for operations or construction. Page Field provides services to general and business aviation, accommodating more than 169,000 operations in 2024.

Patrons of Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille continue to make a difference in the lives of Southwest Florida’s youngest patients. Through their popular Hospital Drink Program, which donates $1 from every purchase of select specialty cocktails, Doc Ford’s raised an impressive $5,874 in 2024 for the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida.

This initiative has been a cornerstone of the restaurant’s philanthropic efforts. Since the program’s inception in 2006, Doc Ford’s four locations—including Sanibel, Fort Myers Beach, and two in St. Petersburg—have collectively donated $133,000 to support Golisano Children’s Hospital and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg. These hospitals rely on community donations to deliver critical pediatric healthcare services and specialized care to the region’s children.

“A Small Contribution That Makes a Big Impact”
“It’s amazing how $1 per drink really adds up for such a worthwhile cause,” said Joe Harrity, partner with HM Restaurant Group, which owns Doc Ford’s. “We’re so grateful to our customers who continue to support the Hospital Drink Program with every visit. It’s heartwarming to see the impact we can make together for children and families in our community.”

The program features $1 donations from 10 specialty cocktails, including Babe on the Bay, Sanibel Stoop, and Hurricane Allie’s Island Punch. Many of these signature drinks were created by loyal customers and are highlighted on Doc Ford’s extensive drink menu.

A Legacy of Giving Back
Philanthropy has been at the heart of Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille since it was founded on Sanibel in 2003. Beyond the Hospital Drink Program, the restaurant, its employees, and HM Restaurant Group are deeply committed to community outreach. Over the years, they’ve supported numerous organizations, including:

• F.I.S.H. of SANCAP
• Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF)
• Sanibel CARES
• Captains For Clean Water

Doc Ford’s is also a proud title sponsor of the “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament, which has raised nearly $1.3 million for Sanibel’s J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge since its launch in 2012. The next tournament, marking its 13th year, will be held on May 9, 2025.

More Than a Restaurant
Inspired by the title character in Randy Wayne White’s novels, Doc Ford’s is beloved for its Caribbean Rim-inspired cuisine, including the signature Yucatan shrimp, flavorful sauces, and fresh seafood. Known for delivering an exceptional guest experience, Doc Ford’s is a Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice winner year after year. In fact, its St. Pete Pier location earned the title of Best Restaurant in the U.S. in the 2023 Tripadvisor Best of the Best Awards for Everyday Eats.

Whether you’re visiting for the food, the drinks, or the community spirit, Doc Ford’s is more than just a restaurant—it’s a hub for making a difference.

Visit Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille
Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Doc Ford’s is the perfect place to enjoy mouth-watering meals and support meaningful causes. For menus, locations, and more information, visit docfords.com.

Together, we can sip, savor, and support!

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has provided a detailed update on the ongoing construction and restoration of the Sanibel Causeway. Following significant storm damage, crews have made substantial progress, including shifting traffic to the permanent lanes. While this marks a major milestone, the surrounding causeway islands remain an active work zone and are closed to public access, including from the water, as critical restoration efforts continue.

What’s Happening on the Causeway?

FDOT has outlined the following key work activities on both sides of the toll plaza. While schedules may be adjusted due to underground conditions or weather, here’s what you can expect:

East of the Toll Plaza

• Lane Closures: Crews are working on McGregor Boulevard from the toll plaza to Shell Point Boulevard. Expect one lane open in each direction during eastbound and westbound closures.
• Median Restoration: Restoration is underway between Port Comfort Road and Punta Rassa Road, requiring westbound lane closures.
• Shoulder Repairs: The asphalt shoulder on eastbound McGregor is closed. Stabilization work is scheduled for early 2025.
• Flagging Operations: Daytime flagging continues to allow for the movement of construction equipment and materials.

West of the Toll Plaza

• Nighttime Paving: From 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., nighttime paving operations reduce traffic to one lane. Work is expected to finish by end of January 2025.
• Intermittent Daytime Flagging: Flagging will occur periodically to facilitate construction and equipment movement.
• Causeway Islands Park: Reconstruction efforts include the installation of a temporary post-and-rope system for future pedestrian traffic. The park remains closed to public access during this phase.

Safety First: Important Guidelines for Travelers

FDOT urges motorists to exercise caution and patience while traveling the causeway. Key safety measures include:

• Speed Limit: Obey the posted 20 mph speed limit in work zones.
• Oversized Vehicles: Expect slower travel as oversized vehicles assist in recovery efforts.
• Pedestrian & Cyclist Restrictions: Pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway, and bicyclists are encouraged to seek alternative transportation.

A Community Moving Forward

The Sanibel Causeway project represents a vital step in the island’s recovery, aiming to restore safe and efficient transportation while ensuring the surrounding environment is protected. FDOT remains committed to completing the project efficiently and with minimal disruption.

For additional details or to stay updated on the project’s progress, visit FDOT’s project page.

As Sanibel continues to rebuild, we thank residents and visitors for their understanding and cooperation during this critical time. Together, we’re paving the way toward a brighter future for the community.

Visitors traveling along Sanibel-Captiva Road may notice areas of dead vegetation, particularly near the curve by the American Legion where cabbage palms (Sabal palmetto) are being removed from J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge lands. This activity is part of the ongoing habitat restoration efforts being undertaken by the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) in response to the unprecedented impacts of recent hurricanes.

As the largest private landowner on Sanibel, managing over 1,800 acres of land, SCCF is committed to restoring preserve lands to protect wildlife habitats and ensure the safety and appearance of the island.

Post-Hurricane Challenges in Vegetation Restoration

The extensive damage caused by Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton has left a significant mark on Sanibel’s conservation lands. The severe storm surges brought prolonged saltwater inundation, leading to the loss of many less salt-tolerant plant species, such as gumbo limbo (Bursera simaruba).

While some vegetation died immediately after Hurricane Ian in September 2022, others succumbed over time. Initial restoration efforts in early 2023, supported by state-funded contractors, included the removal of dead vegetation across SCCF and city properties. However, this funding ended in spring 2023, prompting SCCF to fund private contractors to continue the work across preserves like Gulf Ridge, Sea Spray, and West Sanibel River Preserves.

Unfortunately, the saltwater intrusion from Hurricanes Helene and Milton in September 2024 caused additional damage, resulting in the loss of trees that had been on the brink of survival since Ian.

Current Restoration Efforts

SCCF is actively working with private contractors to remove remaining dead vegetation on conservation lands. This initiative is critical to reducing wildfire risks and creating space for native plants to regenerate, allowing wildlife habitats to recover. Additionally, SCCF’s Coastal Watch has spearheaded community efforts, including volunteer-driven clean-ups and native plantings.

It’s important to note that live native trees, such as cabbage palms, are not being removed during this recovery phase. The only exceptions involve the removal of live invasive exotic species like Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius), Australian pine (Casuarina equisetifolia), and climbing cassia (Senna pendula), which are addressed during dead vegetation removal.

Supporting the Community

Beyond habitat restoration, these efforts aim to improve the visual landscape along roadways, benefitting both residents and the island’s tourism-driven economy. SCCF remains committed to working alongside the community to restore Sanibel’s natural areas following these severe storm events.

How You Can Help

Restoring Sanibel’s conservation lands is a time-intensive and costly process, prioritized by risk to wildlife, residents, and visitors. If you have questions or concerns about SCCF’s restoration efforts or want to learn how you can contribute, please contact SCCF Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz at clechowicz@SCCF.org.

Thank you for your continued support and patience as we work toward a healthier and more vibrant ecosystem for our community and wildlife.

The Captiva Civic Association (CCA) has announced that the highly anticipated “Time Machine” Porch & Patio Social has been rescheduled to Jan. 31 due to unfavorable weather conditions.

ORIGINAL POST (Jan. 21, 2025):
Mark your calendars for the “Time Machine” Porch & Patio Social hosted by the Captiva Civic Association (CCA). Originally planned for Jan. 23, the event will now take place on Jan. 31 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Captiva Civic Center, located at 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva.

As part of the Porch & Patio series, this casual cocktail party promises an evening of fun, featuring live music, refreshments, and hors d’oeuvres. Guests will also witness the grand opening of Captiva’s Time Capsule, sealed 25 years ago, offering a glimpse into the island’s history from the year 2000.

Adding to the excitement, attendees are encouraged to embrace nostalgia by dressing up as their favorite decade. The event is sponsored by the Pfeifer Realty Group as part of the 2024-25 Porch & Patio series.

While the event is free, registration is required. For more information or to register, visit ccacaptiva.org or call 239-472-2111.

Don’t miss this chance to step back in time and connect with the Captiva community!

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) on Sanibel Island has received a significant boost with a $1.2 million grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. This funding will support the construction of a cutting-edge Sea Turtle Complex, set to replace the facility that was tragically destroyed by Hurricane Ian in 2022.

The new complex will honor Bill and Laurie Harkey, who generously contributed to the project, helping CROW secure over $2.5 million in total funding. In recognition of their support, the facility will be named the Harkey Sea Turtle Complex.

The upcoming facility promises to revolutionize the care and rehabilitation of sea turtles. It will feature advanced medical equipment and specialized tanks, including four oval tanks equipped with life support systems capable of accommodating long-term turtle patients. These tanks are designed to be divided into sections, allowing multiple turtles to be treated simultaneously if needed. Additionally, the complex will house a “fly-away tank,” specifically engineered to support hatchling turtles.

The development is a collaborative effort involving key partners, including ALSI Life Support Systems, Joyce Owens Architecture, Colliers Development Services, and Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. Construction is slated to begin this year, with the grand opening anticipated by the end of 2025.

This project reflects CROW’s unwavering commitment to wildlife rehabilitation and conservation. The new Sea Turtle Complex will not only enhance care for injured sea turtles but also help restore hope for these threatened species and the ecosystem they inhabit.

Stay tuned for updates on this exciting initiative as it unfolds!

The Captiva Island Historical Society (CIHS) is kicking off its season with a Lunch Cruise to Tarpon Lodge on January 21. The event begins at 10 a.m., with participants departing from McCarthy’s Marina, located at 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva.

Event Details

This unique experience includes a round-trip cruise from Captiva to Pine Island. Along the way, local historians Betty Anholt and Brian Holaway will share insights on the historical impacts of hurricanes on Pine Island Sound and the surrounding area.

Once on Pine Island, participants will enjoy lunch at the four-star Tarpon Lodge Restaurant, where owner Rob Wells will discuss the history of the 1926 building and its resilience in the face of hurricanes over the years.

Additional Information

• Cost: $90 per person (includes lunch).
• Presenting Sponsor: The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company supports this season’s CIHS events.
• Reservations: For more information or to secure your spot, visit www.captivaislandhistoricalsociety.org or call 239-472-2323.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a scenic cruise, a delicious meal, and captivating stories about the region’s history!

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, most Lee County administrative operations will be closed on January 20. Adjustments to various departments and services include the following:

Community Development

• Closed: January 20
• Reopens: January 21 for regular hours

Domestic Animal Services

• Closed: January 20
• Reopens: January 21 at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers

LeeTran

• No service changes:
  Bus, trolley, tram, paratransit, and ULTRA on-demand services will operate as usual.
  • Route schedules and maps are available at www.rideleetran.com.

Library System

• Closed: January 20
• Reopens: January 21
  • Note: The Captiva Memorial Library and Johann Fust Community Library remain closed due to Hurricane Milton impacts.
  • Online library resources are available at www.leelibrary.net.

Parks & Recreation

• Open: Beaches, parks, preserves, and boat ramps
• Closed: Swimming pools, recreation centers, and administrative offices on January 20
• Reopens: January 21

Solid Waste

• No changes to collection schedules on January 20
• Closed: Solid Waste offices and the Household Chemical Waste Collection Facility (6441 Topaz Court, Fort Myers)

For further information, please contact the respective departments or visit their official websites. Lee County thanks residents for their understanding and wishes everyone a meaningful Martin Luther King Jr. Day.