FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. — Fort Myers Beach neighbors question the placement of new streetlights along Estero Boulevard, as the community grapples with recent changes designed to enhance safety and visibility for residents and wildlife alike.
Watch as Fort Myers Beach Community Correspondent Anvar Ruziev visits the streets where lights have been installed:
Local residents raise concerns over the new streetlight placements
Florida Power & Light proudly states that over 700 LED streetlights are strategically situated based on in-depth safety studies. Yet, a number of local residents remain puzzled by the logic behind the lighting locations.
As Lisa Martin concluded her morning stroll, she paused to observe the busy workers installing new streetlights on her road. With a mix of curiosity and concern, she approached them for clarity. They explained that the poles were positioned according to markings on the asphalt. However, strolling further, she noticed a perplexing absence; the markings vanished abruptly.
“It seems like they only marked the start of the street, and I can’t quite grasp why,” Martin related, her brow furrowed.
Other local residents echo Martin’s worries. Joanne Vassler articulated the pressing need for improved lighting amid ongoing construction and a noticeable uptick in pedestrian traffic. “It would truly help if we had some lighting in this area,” Vassler reflected.
“Currently, there’s hardly any illumination to guide people away from hazardous spots.”
Joseph de Boyer chimed in, recounting his own experiences: “Many times, walking is the only option because the traffic can be so congested; driving becomes a frustrating ordeal.”
In a transparent communication, FPL issued a statement asserting that placement decisions were made after careful analysis. They informed the community about current activities involving the burial of conduit and the installation of poles and fixtures.
The ambitious project is slated for completion in November. Meanwhile, Fort Myers Beach continues to transform, balancing modern safety with its natural charm.
