Connect with us

Hi, what are you looking for?

Florida Government & Politics

Ron DeSantis Offers Major Update on Power Restoration Efforts on Sanibel Island

In Fort Myers on Tuesday, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that temporary repairs to the Sanibel Causeway will allow a one-time convoy of power restoration equipment, supplies, and crews to access Sanibel Island and continue restoration efforts.

The area was hit hard by Hurricane Ian.

Once crews are on the island, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will resume repairs to restore access to the island for residents, which is expected to be complete by the end of this month.

The temporary repairs to the bridge will allow over 200 bucket trucks, 150 line and pickup trucks towing 50 trailers and 2 tractor trailers to move onto the island, along with additional first responders to cross the bridge and aid in recovery efforts while final road repairs are underway. This includes crews from across the state, Lee County Electric Cooperative (LCEC), Florida Power and Light and members of the Florida Electric Cooperative Association.

Last week, at DeSantis’ direction, barges began to deploy to move equipment and supplies to Sanibel Island to restore power and ensure wraparound services like running water are available as quickly as possible. Barges continue to move daily to transport equipment, personnel, and supplies to support recovery operations.

Efforts to restore power to Pine Island are also underway. Last week, the governor announced that FDOT had established a temporary bridge to Pine Island in less than three days, allowing power restoration crews to access the island and begin repairs. Led by Duke Energy and LCEC, crews have begun to clear debris, lay new lines and replace power poles. By Thursday, LCEC expects to have power restored to one-quarter of Pine Island, including the island’s center, water treatment plant substation and to centrally located grocery stores. Power is expected to be restored to one-third of the island and the Matlacha area by next week.

Author

  • Florida Daily offers news, insights and analysis as we cover the most important issues in the state, from education, to business and politics.

    View all posts

Archives

Related Stories

Governor Ron DeSantis

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced new funding for infrastructure development across 17 different communities throughout the state. Below is an official statement from DeSantis’...

Political News

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announces three judicial appointments:Johnathan Lott, of Fort Lauderdale, to serve as Judge on the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit CourtLott has served...

Governor Ron DeSantis

President-Elect Donald Trump is considering Florida Governor Ron DeSantis as a potential replacement nominee for US Secretary of Defense, according to an article in...