Cape Coral Rowing Club faces uncertainty as city looks into new location

CAPE CORAL, Fla. (WINK)—In a surprise move, City Council voted to consider Crystal Lake Park as a future home for the Cape Coral Rowing Club, as the group faces an uncertain future. 

The issue wasn't originally on the agenda for Wednesday's meeting. But a steady stream of young rowers and parents pleaded with council members to take action. The club also appeared at WINK Listens in Matlacha to draw attention to the issue.

"This is our whole life," said Teyahnye Love, a rower with the club. "And it's just very disappointing and I think it'e very eye-opening for everyone here." 

In April, council failed to approve an agreement that would allow the club to use Tropicana Park. Right now, it's operating out of a temporary location along the Seven Islands in northwest Cape Coral. But a new development will force the club find a new home. 

The club said it expected that new home to be Tropicana Park, after the city paid outfit the location with a dock. The council vote in April ended in a tie, with four members voting in favor and four against, causing the motion to fail.

Some neighbors voiced opposition to the move, citing concerns over safety. The Northwest Cape Coral Neighborhood Association led the charge, claiming Tropicana Park posed a threat to rowers who would have to navigate boat traffic. 

But parents argue Tropicana Park is actually the safest option, because it has a dock designed to launch boats onto the water. Launching and docking boats is the most dangerous part of rowing, according to Saundra Weston, the club's president. 

"To yell, safety is kind of interesting," said Saundra Weston, the club's president. "If you're truly concerned about our safety, then why are you pushing us out of the safest location already built and paid for."

Council members have expressed support for keeping the rowing club alive, but disagree on where the club should be located. 

"The city wants the rowing club here. We just got to figure out the right thing long-term," said Joe Kilraine, a council member.

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After some discussion, council directed staff to look into Crystal Lake Park as an alternative. Some council member previously suggested that location during April's meeting. 

If the city doesn't make a decision soon, Weston warned the club could have to shut down for the fall season. 

"It's scary, because, you know, if we don't find a permanent home, I think the club will be dissolve," said Love, the rower. "And I don't know where I'll go."