Cape Coral sidewalk project sparks debate over burrowing owl habitats

Residents in south Cape Coral are raising concerns about a million-dollar sidewalk project that could affect burrowing owl habitats, a species considered threatened due to habitat loss. Christopher Kartes, a Cape Coral resident, criticized the project, saying it could harm the area's already limited wildlife. "It's a waste of Cape Coral money is honestly the way I look at it, as this kind of takes to chase off more wildlife that's already very slim," Kartes said. The project, approved by the city in May, includes improvements to Ceitus Parkway, Orchid Boulevard, and Southwest 22nd Terrace. Stakes marking the construction zones have raised concerns about the impact on burrowing owl nests along Orchid Boulevard. Kartes believes the construction is reducing the area's natural environment. "Honestly, you don't see much besides regular birds and bunnies, and that's pretty much all that Cape Coral has on what's left for the burrowing owls. They're either taking over vacant properties that don't have houses yet, or they're finding little patches of areas that haven't been, I guess, taken over by construction. But that's becoming slim and few," Kartes said. While some residents worry about the owls, others see the sidewalk project as a necessary safety improvement. Tisha Ramirez, another Cape Coral resident, supports the initiative, citing the need for safer walking conditions. "I think we really need the sidewalk because a lot of the school kids catch the bus here. A lot of walkers, I'm one of the walkers. I walk the dog, and we walk in a bike lane. I love the owls. I'm very much animal-oriented. We can move them somewhere else," Ramirez said. The city plans to begin construction on Orchid Boulevard in two to three months. Officials stated that if any protected species are found within the city's right-of-way, the city’s environmental consultant will follow the process to secure the required permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment, and original programming on your TV.