FEMA funds flood mitigation projects in Fort Myers

FORT MYERS, Fla. —

FEMA has allocated $41 million for flood mitigation projects across the Southeast, including $3 million for Fort Myers, to help reduce flooding in areas prone to severe water damage during storms.

Flooding in downtown Fort Myers has been a recurring issue, especially during major storms and hurricanes. During Hurricane Ian in 2022, water levels reached the stairs of the Caloosa Sound Convention Center, causing widespread damage to businesses.

"Flooding in downtown is insane. It takes out restaurants, sometimes for months," said Alfred Casal, a Cape Coral resident.

Nonprofits like the Florida Repertory Theatre were also heavily impacted. Greg Longenhagen, the producing artistic director of the Florida Rep, said, "I've lived here now, for really pretty much since 1998. And, we've seen hurricanes, you know, they come through all the time, but nothing like the hurricane, Hurricane Ian, which really devastated downtown."

Longenhagen described the damage to the theater, saying, "We had about three feet of water, and then the water that came in through the hallway here in the Bradford building. We had anywhere between 18 inches and 2 feet of water," leaving behind $3 million in damage.

Nearby businesses like City Tavern have also faced repeated flooding. "We took water inside for all three storms at the end of the day," said Austin Zajack, food and beverage director at City Tavern.

The $3 million allocated to Fort Myers will be used for initiatives like backup power systems and design and engineering projects aimed at reducing downtown flooding.

While the city has yet to release specific details on the plans for downtown, businesses are eager for any assistance. "It's only a matter of time before we're going to see some more storm activity. It could be soon," Zajack said.

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