Fort Myers Beach Gets Ready for Traffic as $8.4M Estero Boulevard Construction Kicks Off

Starting in November, crews will begin an $8.4 million repair project on Estero Boulevard. The work aims to fix damage from Hurricane Ian, with plans for new sidewalks, curbs, and crossing signals.

Rules to protect sea turtles and residents mean workers can't do their jobs at night. This restriction will squeeze more construction into peak tourist hours, making traffic much worse.

"Traffic is bad in season anyways. So to add that to it — not working at night and only doing it in the day — is really going to have an effect on the traffic on the island," said Kimberly Gaynett, according to Fox 4 News.

Workers will shift lanes and use flags to direct cars. While these steps should keep vehicles moving, drivers should still plan for delays. The work marks the final phase of storm repairs to local streets.

"It'll be interesting in another month, when season really kicks off, just how bad it is," said Donna Melito to Fox 4 News.

Many locals have found smart ways to skip the construction zones. Some take back roads, while others plan to ride bikes.

The Gaynetts know the drill after 40 years on the island. They'll swap their car for bikes to get around the mess. "We'll be okay. We'll rebuild. It's just gonna take time," said Gaynett.

The timing hits right as tourists flock to the beach. Estero Boulevard, which cuts through the heart of the island, already sees heavy traffic during peak months.

While work starts next month, officials haven't set an end date. Drivers should watch for daily changes and plan extra time for trips.