by SC Reporter Emilie Alfino

Sanibel’s proposed Transportation Master Plan takes a comprehensive look at improving safety, efficiency and resilience across the island’s transportation network while preserving its unique character and natural environment. With limited opportunities to expand roads on a barrier island sanctuary, the plan explores alternatives for moving people safely and efficiently.

But some of its 52 proposed projects are raising concerns among the city’s planning commissioners about whether they align with Sanibel’s long-standing commitment to living in harmony with its wildlife and natural habitats.

“Some of the proposals don’t fit with the Sanibel Plan or the character of the island,” said Commissioner Lyman Welch in the commission’s meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 10. “It has things I don’t want to see on the island – traffic lights, five roundabouts.”

The Transportation Master Plan does contain those things, and much more. It recommends 52 projects and 13 programs and studies. They are divided into short-term (within five years), mid-term (6-10 years), and long-term (11-20 years).

Suggestions include seasonal congestion tolling, raised crosswalks, rapid rectangular flashing beacons, shared-use path extensions, a water taxi, and, yes, five roundabouts.

Commissioners did not want to send the plan to City Council without a thorough review and scheduled a special meeting for November 17, 2026, at 9 a.m. View the agenda here.

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