Update regarding travel to Matlacha-Pine Island
Fort Myers, FL, Oct. 7, 2022 – Lee County would like to share with the public an update related to access to the Matlacha-Pine Island area. The following is from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office:
In the interest of rebuilding Matlacha-Pine Island as quickly as possible, today LCSO is removing processes that slowed westbound traffic Thursday when the road and bridges reopened. Those processes reduced the efficiently of rebuilding the infrastructure of the island for residents in need.
However, residents should not be concerned about safety or property, as LCSO has reallocated additional resources to the island for the protection of life and property beginning immediately. LCSO will also coordinate with its multi-jurisdictional law enforcement partners to further enhance safety for Pine Island residents.
Be aware, when people on the island encounter law enforcement, they may be asked for documentation. Be aware of the following:
- Residents should have a driver’s license, utility bill, lease or other proof of residency with them.
- Supply vendors – such as those with water, fuel and groceries – will need to present an Emergency Operations Center-issued mission number.
- Those who are contractors for individual property owners and those who are with insurance companies, etc, will need to show documentation that states the address with which they are affiliated.
Law enforcement will not be checking Public Safety personnel or utility providers, tele-communications companies and garbage/debris haulers.
This is effective immediately. As needed, LCSO will evaluate the need to implement further restrictions to meet the needs of the island residents.
Background: The roadway and temporary bridges installed by the Florida Department of Transportation opened Wednesday afternoon.
Info: Get updates from Lee County government on Hurricane Ian by following @Lee County Government on Facebook, www.facebook.com/leecountyflbocc. More information is available at www.leegov.com/storm.
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