SANCAP CHAMBER
\nThe SanCap Chamber ribbon-cutting for Station 172 on March 27 was a festive occasion for the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District and island community.<\/p>\n
Operational since earlier this year, Sanibel Fire and Rescue District\u2019s Station 172 celebrated with a SanCap Chamber ribbon-cutting ceremony and tours for the public on March 27.<\/p>\n
Fire Chief Kevin Barbot said irreversible damage in 2022 from Hurricane Ian\u2019s 5-6 feet of storm surge made the 50-year-old station uninhabitable for first responders and required full reconstruction. The decision to rebuild to improved standards spared the building from 2024\u2019s damaging hurricanes.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe main benefit is resiliency,\u201d he said. \u201cThe new station is built to much higher wind and surge standards, which means our team can stay on the island longer and get back to work immediately after a storm. We\u2019ve also updated the technology and dispatch systems to keep response times as fast as possible. This reconstruction provides a much more capable tool for our first responders and the residents we protect.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have an incredible fire and rescue department on Sanibel, and it is so satisfying and reassuring to have it back to fully functional and better than ever,\u201d chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said. \u201cNot only is it back, but with its heightened resiliency, it\u2019s back to stay.\u201d<\/p>\n
Barbot credits the support of the community and strong partnerships for the district\u2019s recovery, including the city of Sanibel, state officials and FEMA at the federal level.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe support from the community has been incredible,\u201d he said. \u201cIt\u2019s been tough working out of a temporary trailer, but the patience and support from the residents really kept us moving forward.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThe chamber has kept everyone hopeful and focused on the vision that our island residents, business owners and visitors are loyal and committed to our recovery,\u201d Barbot added. \u201cIt hasn\u2019t been easy for anyone, but having the right village surround you makes it happen.\u201d<\/p>\n
Station 172 is at 5171 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel.<\/p>\n