Wilson Pigott Bridge closure leads to detours and frustrations for residents

LEE COUNTY, Fla. —

The nine-day closure of the Wilson Pigott Bridge has caused detours and traffic congestion, leading drivers to cut through Sabal Palm Drive, a private road, and sparking frustration among its residents.

Kelly Stoops, a resident of Sabal Palm Drive, shared her concerns about the impact of the increased traffic.

"But how people are driving down the road today, it's just unsafe for everyone involved, and it's a financial burden for just the residents located on this road," Stoops said.

Stoops said over 60 vehicles had driven down her road before 7:30 a.m. on the day of the interview, many traveling at speeds exceeding 40 mph.

"We've had people driving down our road just today -- over 60 vehicles before 7:30 a.m., going at speeds of excess of 40 miles an hour. It also does deteriorate the conditions of the road," she said.

She added that the road is privately maintained, meaning residents are responsible for covering repair costs.

"It is a privately maintained road where we, the residents, are responsible for paying out of pocket for that," Stoops said.

The traffic congestion has also affected her family, with her daughter taking an hour to get to school in the morning. Stoops said school buses face additional delays, leaving parents worried about their children's safety.

"We don't know what time they're getting home anymore. I mean, luckily, you know, in today's world, we do have Life360, we do have, you know, Apple Maps, and we're able to track our children, but it's just scary having them sit," Stoops said.

In an effort to deter drivers from using the road, Stoops created a makeshift barricade using trash cans and crates. However, she said drivers became frustrated with the blockade.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office informed Stoops that it would attempt to manage traffic in the area but noted its limited resources.

"They said they will attempt to do traffic control out in this area. However, with limited resources and, you know, of course, crime being the ultimate goal for law enforcement to protect the community, that traffic control is not their main concern," Stoops said.

Stoops said she hopes the county will either leave the road alone or take responsibility for its repairs.

"I would just like some assistance. I mean, I've shelled out thousands and thousands of dollars, and I feel like they've just turned a deaf ear to the residents on this road," Stoops said.

Drivers can expect delays for the next nine days as repairs continue on the Wilson Pigott Bridge.

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