by SC Reporter Emilie Alfino
Sanibel City Council heard a presentation by Kimley Horn, represented by Bill Waddill, about the study of the intersection of Periwinkle Way and Causeway Boulevard. The study started in the spring and is now at the mid-point. The study intends to analyze the traffic issues and provide recommendations for improvements by analyzing existing conditions and determining deficiencies to then propose potential alternatives. They will engage the public to solicit feedback and comments and then recommend the preferred alternative.
Going forward, conceptual design alternatives will be presented in September, community workshops and feedback will happen in October. In November it will go to the Planning Commission for recommendations, and then head to City Council for final approval in December.
Waddill said they recognize the importance of balancing the sanctuary nature of the island and keeping the small-town community feel, recognizing working in harmony with nature but also not spending an hour trying to get off the island.
Ian Rairden of Kimley Horn said definitively that their findings do not support a traffic signal at the intersection. Other intersection types to be analyzed include a roundabout, a median U-turn, and a wide U-turn. All have their advantages and disadvantages. More to come.