The Cape Coral City Council is prepared to vote on the “Yacht Club Marine Development Package”, a plan nearly $23 million in scope aimed at rebuilding seawalls, ramps, and docks at the historic waterfront park. Many residents have expressed frustration over the prolonged wait and the associated financial burden.
The city has described the Yacht Club Marine Development Package as essential for rebuilding the waterfront following Hurricane Ian. However, residents are growing increasingly impatient with the delays.
“Nothing is being done. Nothing is being started,” said Susan Fisher.
The project includes constructing a new seawall, dock infrastructure, and a boat ramp. If approved, it will cost $22.78 million, a portion of the estimated $225 million total needed for the entire rebuild.
“The taxpayers should not cover it. If my house burns down, the taxpayers aren’t gonna help me rebuild,” said Joseph Fisher.
While some funding will come from state grants, the city plans to cover the rest through city-issued debt, which will eventually affect homeowners like Joseph.
“Taxes are not a good subject with me,” said Fisher.
Longtime visitors are also feeling the effects of the delay.
“Coming here the first time, before it burnt down, and the storm wiped it out. It was probably one of our favorite places to come on the boat,” said Dana.
After a year without progress, Dana has lost confidence in the city’s timeline.
If the council approves the project today, it has a 605-day timeline, pushing completion to mid-2027. Yet, skepticism remains within the community.
“It’s not gonna happen. If we’ve had nothing this amount of time, I can’t see it happening in another 300 days,” said Susan Fisher.
The Cape Coral City Council is currently in session, and the decision on whether this project will proceed or face further delays is anticipated soon.