CAPE CORAL – The city is gearing up to tackle future disasters head-on by refining its recovery plans.

“We want to make sure that when a disaster strikes our city, that we’re as prepared as we can be and we have a tough city,” said Ryan Lamb, director of emergency management.

On Tuesday, residents gathered to share their experiences with Tetra Tech, a consulting company helping to develop the city’s next recovery plan.

After Hurricane Ian, Lee County was awarded $1.1 billion, said Lamb. This project is one of five planning initiatives.

Cindy Magnuson from the Red Cross emphasized the importance of addressing mental health and post-traumatic stress in recovery efforts.

The city aims to complete its disaster and cost recovery plan within the next two months.