COTI Conversation generates discussion, ideas
The Committee of the Islands hosted its COTI Conversation on Feb. 21 at The Community House on Sanibel. COTI Board Member and past American Public Transportation Association Chief Executive Officer William Millar led the program, “It’s Time to Talk Transportation.”
The goal was to help define the issues and offer possible solutions to the dilemma that has dogged the islands for decades. The program covered traffic congestion, bicycle safety on the Shared Use Path (SUP), environmental concerns and electric vehicles.
COTI reported that attendees were invited to suggest remedies and, at the end, to vote for the most promising options. With general agreement on the need for a comprehensive transportation study, the specific options favored included:
– Addition of off-island parking connections to shuttles or other transit options or for carpooling for workers
– Redirection of traffic to alternate routes based on morning and afternoon needs
– Increased speeds on the Sanibel Causeway
– Switching lane directions on the causeway during rush hour-pricing
– More affordable housing on the islands to reduce on-island travel by workers
– Airport transit to island hotels/condos for visitors, with bikes and low-speed vehicles provided
– New ferry service
– Reduction in the number of entrances and exits along Periwinkle Way to ease traffic flow
Several attendees voiced concerns about speeding e-bikes on the SUP for regular riders and walkers. Questions posed included: Can the study of the SUP, halted by Hurricane Ian, be reactivated and completed soon? Can the paths be widened or expanded to allow separate lanes for e-bikes? Can bump-outs on Sanibel-Captiva Road help lower-speed vehicles pull over to improve safety and traffic flow?
With environmental concerns in mind, Millar explained that in Florida gas and diesel vehicle emissions are the top air polluters, so in a nature-sensitive barrier island more attention must be devoted to encouraging electric vehicles with more public charging options, coupled with expanded availability of bikes and walking paths.
Official causeway traffic counts show fewer vehicles than pre-hurricane. COTI reported that what has changed is the type of traffic and speed. With work on the causeway islands continuing, contractors commuting to repair homes and businesses and a 20 mph speed limit, the reality is long backups. Beach renourishment sand trucks added to the slowdown, although an April end to the project is expected.
Millar, former developer of statewide public transit programs at the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, said the islands’ long-time problems with transportation can be improved while still protecting the mission of preserving the sanctuary status of the barrier islands’ small-town nature.
“Many small changes taken together could lead to better vehicle flow and improved safety for all,” he said.
To watch a video of the public comment portion, visit COTI’s Facebook page.
To submit ideas for improving transportation, email coti33957@coti.org.