The Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce has spearheaded the project transforming power poles in the Pine Island community.
Recently, several painted poles were damaged by Hurricane Ian and Milton, but administrator Cynthia Welch remains optimistic about restoration.
“After a storm, we may look a little different, but our spirit remains the same,” she says.
Each painted pole tells a unique story, representing family and community ties. One heartwarming example features fish created from the handprints of a grandmother's grandchildren, highlighting the project's focus on unity.
In the aftermath of hurricanes, the Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District and LCEC have been working diligently to salvage the artwork from fallen poles. Fire Chief Benjamin Mickuleit noted, “Each pole is a symbol of home,” emphasizing their role in the island's identity.
So far, 78 out of 157 approved poles have been painted, with plans for the salvaged poles to be displayed in front of Pine Island Fire Station 2.
Welch says, “No hurricane will keep it down. We may lose a few, but we’ll paint them back,” capturing the enduring spirit of the Pine Island community.