SANIBEL, Fla. — Parking changes made to the Sanibel Causeway as part of Lee County's shoreline stabilization project, which officials say will create more structure ahead of the Fourth of July holiday weekend, has some beachgoers concerned about what they feel could turn into more parking headaches.
County spokesperson Betsy Clayton says part of the $8.5 million project, which was mostly completed last month, means adding new pavilions, restrooms, and additional parking the county feels will enhance both Islands A and B.
"The only thing that's still being done is the signs and posts," Clayton said.
However, frequent Causeway visitors, like Susie Lecompte, do not agree with the county's view new posts, already installed on Island B's Road, will help with more organized parking.
“Everything is blocked off, taped off. They put a whole lot of poles up that minimizes where you can and cannot park," Lecompte says.
But other locals like Kris Laba, who visit the Causeway weekly, say the work is not stopping him from enjoying what he feels is a slice of paradise.
“It’s a good thing," Laba said. "We just have to put up with the situation that’s here right now, with all the equipment and all the other things that they’ve added," he says.
"The parking issue is always difficult on the weekend. Now, when you have a holiday weekend, then it’s really bad," he adds.
Lee County Sheriff's Deputies will be out over the weekend to enforce the county's noise ordinance and help facilitate parking and minimize any potential problems.
If you'd like to read more about plans for the Causeway, click here.
