Naples City Council approves more than $36M on River Park East flooding improvements

Residents of River Park East in Naples are calling for infrastructure improvements to address flooding that has devastated their community. James Whittaker, a resident of River Park East, shared his experience of the financial and emotional toll of the flooding. "It took virtually all of my savings. So I was in the process of, you know, rebuilding that before I retired. It was heartbreaking," Whittaker said. Whittaker took videos of the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, which left his home filled with water. "It was catastrophic because we had 3 feet of water in the house. We lost everything," he said. The recurring flooding has prompted some residents, like Jackie Dean, to raise their homes on stilts in hopes of avoiding future damage. City officials recently approved millions of dollars to improve roads, pump stations, and drainage in the area. "I won't believe it to actually see it because we've been promised so many things in this neighborhood and it never came to life," Dean said. Residents of River Park East, a historically Black neighborhood, say they often feel overlooked when it comes to city improvements. They are advocating for the city to prioritize their community as it plans to spend $36.2 million on infrastructure upgrades. "We are looking for permanent pumps to be in here. We're looking for infrastructure to be done in our community and neighboring communities so that we don't have to worry about or not worry as much about the flooding. That's basically what we want," Whittaker said. "To be remembered as a part of Naples." The city has acknowledged that River Park East is one of its oldest coastal neighborhoods, making it particularly vulnerable to damage from both major storms and heavy rain. Dean expressed frustration with what she sees as a pattern of unfulfilled promises. "I wish the things that they promised us, they would make sure they do it. Stop making empty promises. We care too. You know we should. And they should care about this neighborhood," she said. "But they, in my opinion, maybe I shouldn't say this, but I've always felt like because we were on the last waterfront, they want us out of here anyway." City officials estimate it will take two years to finalize plans with designers and engineers before construction can begin. In the meantime, Whittaker said, "It's about time." 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.