County reminds public that Causeway Islands are closed
In anticipation of Memorial Day, Lee County reminds residents and visitors that the Causeway Islands Park on the Sanibel Causeway remains closed to watercraft, pedestrian and bicycle traffic.
The county reported that the causeway islands are an active construction zone. Motorists should use caution and some activities are prohibited while the project is underway.
The project contractor is driving sheet pile — which will be covered as work is completed — to protect the causeway from future storms. The Florida Department of Transportation is coordinating with the county, Federal Highway Administration and permitting agencies for the permanent repairs.
The speed limit has been reduced to 20 mph due to reduced lane and shoulder widths. Bicyclists are encouraged to use another form of transportation over the causeway. Pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway or Causeway Islands at this time. Causeway Island beaches are not open, so do not plan picnics or stopping on the islands.
Also, the use of non-motorized vessels for windsurfing or kiteboarding is suspended on the Causeway Islands and surrounding waterways. Motorized vessels may not pull up along the shoreline or stop in adjacent channels due to the construction activity.
The county has created a video for residents and visitors at https://youtu.be/sl2oPAgaF3I.
The Sanibel Causeway was heavily damaged by Hurricane Ian, which made landfall in Lee County on Sept. 28. As a part of the Florida Department of Transportation’s Emergency Restoration of the causeway, crews continue work on McGregor Boulevard and the Sanibel Causeway from Port Comfort Road to Sanibel Island. For more information, visit www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway.