Sanibel launches 'Slow Down Sanibel' campaign to curb speeding

SANIBEL, Fla. —

Sanibel police and city officials have launched the "Slow Down Sanibel" campaign to encourage drivers to reduce speed and ensure safety for wildlife, walkers, and bikers, backed by data from a traffic study.

Sanibel police have identified the west end of Sanibel Captiva Road and Casa Ybel Road as frequent speeding spots. With more visitors arriving this time of year, the campaign invites drivers to take it slow.

"We have a definite increase in residents complaining about speeding in their neighborhood this time of year," said William Dalton, Sanibel police chief.

Dalton discussed potential changes stemming from the campaign and study. "These radar devices and the data that they have provided have been very helpful. [After] providing information to our city council, and they're considering a number of traffic calming devices right now," Dalton explained. "Lowering speed limits in some areas, maybe even changing, the structure of the roadways, having a designated area for slow speed vehicles to pull off of things of that nature," he added.

While the council has not yet voted on any changes, some drivers remain skeptical about the effectiveness of potential measures. "When there's a lot of traffic, vehicles are still going to go fast because they're going to want to get through it, you know? So, I don't think changing the speed limit is going to make any difference," said Nancy Samuelson, a driver on Casa Ybel Road.

The city and police plan to continue meeting with the council before any changes are implemented.

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