Drone video: Pine Island Road's Hurricane Ian restoration showing significant progress

Mark H. Bickel and Ricardo Rolón, Fort Myers News-Press
·2 min read

Even almost 14 months after Hurricane Ian clobbered many parts of Southwest Florida, recovery and repairs continue in monumental ways.

One of those places is Matlacha where the road leading into the quaint and popular fishing village was severely damaged by Ian's winds and storm surge.

The Florida Department of Transportation's Emergency Restoration of the Pine Island Road Causeway and Bridge project is progressing. Ric Rolon, a drone pilot for the News-Press and Naples Daily News recently took video above the restoration project.

Q&A: FDOT answers questions about Pine Island road restoration

1-What phase is the project in right now, or what work is being done are part of the ongoing project?

FDOT: As part of the Emergency Restoration of the Pine Island Road Causeway and Bridge, a permanent sheet pile wall, with concrete cap was installed on the south side of Pine Island Causeway, east of Matlacha Pass Bridge. Crews continue driving sheet piling on the north side and work on utilities. The sheet piling wall will protect the causeway from erosion due to waves and flooding and prevent washouts similar to what was experienced with Hurricane Ian. This will complete phase I of the project with substantial completion expected December 2023.

2-What would be the next significant work or next phase?

FDOT: The remaining drainage, roadway, and asphalt work will continue in Phase II of the project which is expected to finish May of 2024. The existing storm drain portion west of Matlacha Pass Bridge will be replaced June 2024.

3-Anything people would need to know about traffic patterns shifting or temporary closures?

FDOT: Crews will be maintaining two-lane traffic on the causeway to minimize disruption to the supply chain and sustain business and resident access. Crews are currently working 6 days a week. Motorists can expect occasional delays due to flagging operations for delivery/removal of materials, and transfer of equipment.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: drone video show's progress on pine island rd restoration in matlacha