Captiva panel updated on county project, bikes and more
The Captiva Community Panel received an update on the county’s infrastructure project for the island at its recent meeting, plus information on bike regulations and a life jacket loaner program.
On May 12, Panel Member and Infrastructure Committee Member Mike Bennett reported on the mitigation project being planned for the 800 feet leading up to Jensen’s curve to improve resiliency. Lee County has signed a contract with an engineering firm for the design, which will take a year.
He continued that it will take another six to eight months for the construction bid process.
“I think we’re looking at, at the earliest, early 2028 before that activity takes place,” Bennett said.
He noted that the project is also tied to additional mitigation work for the Blind Pass area.
Also during the meeting, Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) Sgt. Adam Winton provided a monthly report, explaining that he had been asked by the panel and community about regulations for e-bikes.
“There’s not a lot of specific regulations,” he said, adding that the county — which covers Captiva because it is unincorporated — does not have much in place, compared to Sanibel and its rules.
Winton continued that the regulations will be similar to those for bikes and outlined some.
He reported that the maximum speed is 28 mph on roads, riders under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet, and bicyclists should travel as close to the right side of the roadway as possible.
When riding at night, a white light on the front of the bike and red light or red reflector on the back is required. Bicyclists must also provide hand signals when turning, slowing down, stopping and such.
Winton noted that a group of 10 or more bikes can proceed through a stop sign together.
In terms of regulations for motorists, they must allow for 3 feet of clearance between a bicycle and their vehicle. A vehicle is permitted to cross a double yellow line — no passing — to pass a bike.
Also in his report, Winton noted that the Memorial Day holiday weekend is approaching.
He explained that there will likely be a lot of non-islanders visiting.
“Please make sure you take this opportunity to take good protective measures,” Winton said. “Lock your vehicles, lock your houses.”
He reminded that no open alcoholic containers are allowed in public within the county.
On a related note, Captiva Island Fire Control District Fire Chief Jeff Pawul spoke of the free, life jacket loaner program available at the fire station. While mainly used by vacationers, it is open to the public, so islanders who may have family and friends in town. There are adult and children’s sizes.
“There’s no fee or paperwork that you have to fill out,” he said.
IN OTHER NEWS
– Panel Secretary Jay Brown provided an update as chair of the Stormwater Committee.
He reported that the hack of the county consultant’s computer has been rectified. The first draft of the stormwater management study for Captiva will be done in August, with the final report in October.
– Winton provided the following LCSO statistics for April for Captiva: 333 service calls; one arrest related to a domestic violence incident; five crash investigations, including one single-vehicle golf cart, one multi-vehicle golf carts, and parking lot fender benders; and 39 citations or warnings issued.
To reach TIFFANY REPECKI / trepecki@breezenewspapers.com, please email