Traffic congestion on Sanibel Island has long been a source of frustration for residents and visitors alike. With increasing concerns about delays and long wait times, the City of Sanibel has taken proactive steps to address these issues. The latest development in this effort is the release of a comprehensive traffic survey aimed at identifying and mitigating traffic woes in key areas like Causeway Boulevard and Periwinkle Way.
Understanding Sanibel's Traffic Woes
Peter Dirico, a Sanibel resident since 2011, has firsthand experience with the island's traffic issues. "Traffic can back up quite a ways, all the way up to San-Cap roads," Dirico explains. "In season and even in the summer, if there's an accident, it can be a nightmare. You’re not getting off the island for hours."
This sentiment is echoed by many residents who have voiced similar concerns. To address these issues, the City of Sanibel commissioned a traffic survey to gather data on traffic patterns and delays. The survey focused on critical intersections, including Causeway Boulevard and Periwinkle Way, areas known for their heavy traffic.
Survey Results: What We Know So Far
According to the survey findings, most residents experience daily traffic delays, particularly during the winter and spring months. These delays typically last between 30 minutes to an hour, with peak congestion occurring in the afternoons and evenings. "An 8 o’clock appointment would be great, but coming home in an hour and a half, I'd be stuck somewhere on Summerlin, sitting bumper to bumper," Dirico notes. Many locals have adapted by scheduling appointments and errands around peak traffic times.
Priorities for Improvement
The survey highlighted three main priorities for improving traffic conditions at the identified intersections:
Decreased Wait Times: Reducing the time drivers spend waiting at traffic signals and intersections.
Safety: Enhancing safety measures to prevent accidents and ensure smoother traffic flow.
Aesthetics: Improving the visual appeal of these critical intersections to make the area more welcoming and pleasant.
"But how do you solve that?" Dirico questions. This is a challenge that many Sanibel residents are eager to see addressed.
Next Steps
The City of Sanibel is in the early stages of developing a conceptual plan based on the survey results. This plan will be presented at upcoming public meetings, where residents will have the opportunity to provide feedback. The planning commission is set to review the proposed changes in November, with the city council expected to discuss and potentially approve them in December.
Stay tuned for further updates as the City of Sanibel continues to work on alleviating traffic concerns and improving overall mobility on the island.
People also ask:
Is Sanibel Island Ready for Visitors?
Sanibel Island, which faced significant damage from Hurricane Ian in September 2022, is making strides in its recovery. As of February 2024, the island is still in the rebuilding phase, with limited lodging options. However, many of the island’s primary beaches, along with several local businesses and restaurants, have reopened for visitors.
Is the Sanibel Causeway Repaired?
Yes, the Sanibel Causeway, which connects the island to the mainland at Punta Rassa, has been successfully repaired. Emergency repairs were completed, allowing trucks to use the causeway starting October 11, 2022. By October 20, 2022, the causeway was fully open to all vehicular traffic.
Has Access to Sanibel Been Fully Restored?
According to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), the restoration of the Sanibel Causeway involved two sequential projects with some overlap. Emergency repairs were completed in October 2022, and permanent repairs began immediately afterward to ensure long-term access to the island.
How Busy Is Sanibel Island?
During peak season, Sanibel Island experiences heavy traffic congestion. Expect significant inbound traffic from 8 a.m. to noon and heavy outbound traffic between 2:30 and 6:30 p.m. On a weekly basis, traffic volumes are generally lighter on Sundays.
4020 Del Prado Blvd S. Unit B2, Cape Coral, FL 33904
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