The lack of lighting on Estero Boulevard could be one of the most studied issues on Fort Myers Beach. Last week the town council decided to hire its 4th consultant on the issue. Estero Boulevard is one of the busiest roads in all of Lee County, especially during season, and one of the darkest once the sun goes down.
The major stumbling block to getting lights on the Boulevard is how to protect both human life and the turtles without spending millions of dollars. FPL has been a major roadblock in getting this accomplished. The state agency has some on the council frustrated with outrageously high cost estimates they’ve provided and their unwillingness to work with the town to make the Boulevard safer. An FPL representative is expected to come before the council on February 16th to answer council members questions.
The Town received three qualified consultant submissions. The three firms that were considered were: TrebiLcock Consulting Solutions, PA, REDD Inc, DBA Town Lighting Engineers and A.D.A. Engineering.
After interviewing the three firms Town Lighting Engineers ranked the highest.
Town Lighting Engineers has experience with turtle-friendly lighting in Stuart, Juno Beach, Pennsacola and Bradenton. The town does not have money budgeted for another lighting consultant and will have to find money in the budget to pay the consultant if they decide to hire one.
There is no money in the budget for the latest lighting consultant so the town manager will have to shift money from elsewhere to cover the expense.
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