CAPE CORAL, Fla. (WINK)—Some northeast Cape Coral homeowners can now water their lawns once a week after months of zero irrigation days.
The South Florida Water Management District eased restrictions for private well users after groundwater levels improved enough to allow limited watering. Crews are installing lines to connect homes to city water and help take pressure off the aquifer below.
For months, irrigation was completely off limits in some parts of northeast Cape Coral. Eric Fitzgerald, a private well user, said the restrictions have been difficult.
“The problem is, a lot of them are struggling because of the water restrictions, and we’re not able to. We’re losing plants left and right,” Fitzgerald said.
The water management district released its Phase Four restrictions, previously placed last May after a monitoring well dropped to a level that raised concerns about long-term damage. The district now says the groundwater level has improved enough to allow the order to be eased.
The change only applies to homes and businesses using private wells connected to the Mid-Hawthorn Aquifer. For some homeowners, even knowing which rule applies to which house has been part of the frustration.
“It’s just frustrating that you can’t get a real answer,” James Adcock said.
Fitzgerald said he’s looking forward to the long-term solution already taking shape outside his home.
“We’re excited that we’re actually getting city water finally,” Fitzgerald said. “I really can’t wait until I can actually water the lawn without sitting there with a hose, standing there sweltering.”
Work continues to connect every home on the road to city water, and the water management district has not lifted restrictions altogether.