Burnt Store Road is indeed at risk of failing if the middle section isn’t widened. The sentiment expressed by Lance Wissinger, a local resident, resonates with many. “Now is the time to do anything, honestly, because we do have so many people coming to Florida,” he stated, a hint of urgency in his voice. This concern is palpable among the growing population of Cape Coral. As construction and influx continue, the road’s limitations are becoming painfully clear.
Watch Bella’s full report below:
FDOT looks at widening part of Burnt Store Road, as flooding remains a top concern
The Florida Department of Transportation shares this apprehension. “This road had a lot of flooding issues, and so we’re trying to raise the profile to prevent some of the flooding,” Project Manager Steven Andrews explained. Andrews emphasized the road’s precarious status, warning that Burnt Store could be classified as failing if proactive measures aren’t taken. “It’s an evacuation route. The traffic projections for 2045 are very high, almost double or triple. If we don’t act now, it will be a failing road,” he elaborated.
Living in Cape Coral for over 20 years, Wissinger reflects on how long overdue the improvements are given the area’s surging population. “That road is certainly not going to be able to handle it. It can barely manage what we have now,” he remarked with a mixture of frustration and resignation.
Currently, Cape Coral encourages its residents to voice their priorities. “We are not in a position to have all this traffic coming the way the infrastructure is set up,” Wissinger continued, his voice steady yet laced with worry. For him and countless others, Burnt Store Road serves as a vital evacuation route. Therefore, seeing FEMA flood maps at a recent meeting filled him with concern for himself and his neighbors.
FDOT looks at widening part of Burnt Store Road, as flooding remains a top concern
As the FDOT navigates this pressing issue, they remain in the study phase, evaluating the wishes of residents and the county. Should they validate the necessity, the project could quickly transition to the design phase, where decisions about the addition of lanes would be made. More than just an upgrade, this isn’t merely about lanes; it’s about safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and the future of Cape Coral in the face of inevitable growth.
