Debris

FEMA has approved more than $6.7 million in grant funding to reimburse Fort Myers and Punta Gorda for debris removal expenses after Hurricane Ian.The storm left extensive debris, resulting in a threat to public health and safety. FEMA has approved $4,212,798 in federal funding to the city of Fort Myers and $2,550,889 to the city of Punta Gorda, for debris removal operations as a direct result of Hurricane Ian.

There's an additional $51,415,078 in grant funding coming to Lee County from FEMA for debris removal expenses after Hurricane Ian.The storm left extensive debris, resulting in a threat to public health and safety. Approximately 2,040,625 cubic yards of vegetative debris, 1,252,193 cubic yards of hurricane-generated debris, and 217 tons of hazardous materials were removed from roads and public property in the county. Previously, FEMA had awarded $16,853,000 for these costs.

The right of way removal service for hurricane-related debris in Fort Myers Beach has been extended until further notice.

Lee County residents are reminded to start following regular waste collection guidelines.

The Monday after Hurricane Ian hit Southwest Florida, a group of 5 created the grassroots organization, Rebuild SWFL, to aid the devastation in areas around Southwest Florida that were overlooked.

Storm debris collection in Charlotte County officially concluded operations February 11.

The Lee County Visitor and Convention Bureau (VCB) developed a four-stage recovery campaign to promote tourism in Lee County by spreading excitement as the current focus. “The goal is to show that the destination is bouncing back,” Tamara Pigott, the director of VCB said. “While things may not be “normal” just yet, there is still an opportunity to have an enjoyable experience and support the community they’ve so enjoyed visiting in the past.”

To see the progress of the final pass and where the pass has been completed, visit www.CharlotteCountyFL.gov/debris. Dec. 31 was the last day to put storm debris in the right of way for pickup.

Lee County’s debris-hauling contractor will continue collections of storm debris in other areas.

The county’s debris-hauling contractor will continue collections of storm debris in other areas