Wilson Pigott Bridge closure affects businesses and commuters

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK)—The 10-day closure of the Wilson Pigott Bridge is impacting businesses and families across Lee County.

The Boathouse, a staple restaurant in the Fort Myers area, is bracing for the financial impact of the bridge closure. Jordan Audia, the general manager of The Boathouse, said the bridge is a vital connection for their customers.

"It's one of the heartbeat coming in from North Fort Myers, that brings everybody to us," Audia said.

Audia said the restaurant is trying to stay optimistic, but previous closures have shown the potential consequences. He says the restaurant has experienced drawbacks in business during past closures.

"They've closed it down a few times, and we've definitely seen that, you know, drawbacks of business," Audia said.

To help boost business during the closure, the restaurant is offering specials this week on oysters and cocktails from Monday to Thursday. Audia encouraged customers to visit despite the inconvenience.

"Come on out. We look forward to seeing everybody and you know, get through the next 10 days," Audia said.

On the other side of the bridge in Babcock Ranch, the closure is affecting daily routines for families. Lisa Pignataro and her daughter Gabby are unexpectedly spending the day at home after attempting to make the commute to Fort Myers.

"We knew this was happening, but it was way worse than I expected it," Pignataro said.

Pignataro said she was on her way to drop Gabby off at school in Fort Myers, but the traffic was far worse than anticipated. The drive to the Lee County Civic Center, which typically takes 15 minutes, took an hour and a half.

"That drive is typically 15 minutes, but for us this morning it was an hour and a half," Pignataro said.

With at least another hour of driving ahead of her, Pignataro turned around. Now, the family is trying to decide how to handle the rest of the closure period.

"Next steps for us is just trying to decide if we'll, maybe we can find an Airbnb or a hotel closer into the Fort Myers area, because I don't know if we could do that kind of traffic every day for the next 10 days," Pignataro said.

The Florida Department of Transportation said the closure is expected to last 10 days. WINK News will keep you up to date on its progress.