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Community members rally to discuss their opposition against the future use of Tropicana Park

Posted at 3:55 PM, Jan 19, 2020
and last updated 2020-01-19 16:22:20-05

CAPE CORAL, Fla. — "The purpose of the rally was not to do a demonstration but to share information”, John Bashaw President of the Northwest Cape Coral Neighborhood Association said.

That is what John Bashaw President of the Northwest Cape Coral Neighborhood Association had to say regarding the event. Many turned out to publicly discuss their opposition against Tropicana Park being the new home to the Caloosa Coast Rowing club and the South Florida Canoe Kayak Club.

Bashaw says communication with the city has not been the best, and they still have questions.

“There really was not any disclosure on, What do the buildings look like? Are there going to be fenced storage areas? What sort of concessions might be there? Will there be a public kayak launch nearby? We just don’t know”, said Bashaw.

Adding key factors need to be addressed including, zoning, safety of all using the spreader, Florida state statutes including the G.O. bond. As well as others including their full access to the park and the clubs fit in this neighborhood park.

“With all of these issues all we are asking is for someone to take them seriously, to pay us the due respect that we deserve and answer these questions one by one,” said Bashaw.

One West Cape Estates resident says the “S” shaped curve in the spreader is a major safety hazard.

“There are hundreds of boaters that pass through that “S” curve every year, and then you put that amount of people in the water in the same spot, it could be disastrous”, said Mona Farquharson

They have been left in the dark and want answers.

“ The city is now working with the rowing club and the kayak club to find alternate locations, we’re not part of that discussion. So once again whatever alternative is presented, the issues that have been raised, need to be addressed”, said Bashaw.