FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. — The question lingers: Why will it take three years for some parks on Fort Myers Beach to be rebuilt? The devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Ian is still palpable, two years later, as the community grapples with the lengthy process of recovery and restoration.
WATCH AS FORT MYERS BEACH COMMUNITY CORRESPONDENT ANVAR RUZIEV COVERS THE PROJECT:
Why some Fort Myers Beach parks won’t be rebuilt for another three years
Recently, nearly $2.5 million was greenlit for the design and permitting of Crescent Beach Park and Bowditch Point Park, both located on the northern tip of Estero Island. This financial commitment underscores the seriousness of the task ahead, though it might take much longer than many residents hope.
Lee County’s Director of Facilities Construction, Ehab Guirguis, mentioned that the timeline for design and permitting might stretch between 12 and 18 months. “We will aim for the lower end of that range,” Guirguis stated with a hint of optimism. Following that, the bidding process to select a contractor is expected to take an additional five months, and then the actual construction could require up to a year, maybe even more.
Community members are understandably frustrated. Commissioner Brian Hamman raised a valid point during discussions; he noted that the buildings at Bowditch Point appear structurally sound. “As an ordinary person who isn’t familiar with construction, I see solid floors and intact structures,” he questioned. “What prevents us from using these facilities now? Did the plumbing suffer irreversible damage?”
Guirguis clarified that the most significant destruction lies beneath the surface — the plumbing and electrical systems that demand extensive repairs. While the renovations are underway, portable restrooms and showers will be set up to accommodate visitors, striving to offer some semblance of normalcy amidst disruption.
The funding for this endeavor will flow from various sources: Lee County’s general fund, FEMA disaster relief, and the Florida Department of Emergency Management. Many families, small businesses, and beloved local spots still feel the ripple effects of the hurricane’s wrath as they await the parks’ restoration.
An interesting change has surfaced in the design plans for Crescent Beach Park. The initial proposal for artificial turf has been scrapped. The vision is now to incorporate natural sand along with shade structures and a scenic boardwalk, a thoughtful nod to the local landscape and community desires.
As Fort Myers Beach continues its journey toward revitalization, the path ahead remains fraught with challenges. Yet, the communal spirit shines through in the willingness to rebuild, restoring not just parks, but a local culture that thrives on togetherness and resilience.
