First Street (SR 80) Utility Project Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the City of Fort Myers doing this project now with all the other construction that’s going on around the city?
Existing water and sewer infrastructure in this area is made from a mixture of materials that vary in age.  City utilities staff has found water main fittings stamped with dates from the early 1900s.  The old potable water mains are primarily cast iron and these mains are reaching the end of their life expectancy.  With the planned growth in this area, the City recognizes the need to replace and upgrade utilities to support the expected growth and provide improved service and reliability for all those who live, work or visit the River District.

Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) had planned to resurface First Street (SR 80) from Fowler Street to Seaboard Street.  Knowing utilities on First Street (SR 80) from Fowler Street to Seaboard Street needed to be replaced, the City of Fort Myers entered into a Joint Participation Agreement (JPA) with Florida DOT to use the resurfacing money from Florida DOT toward the reconstruction of the roadway after the completion of the utility installations. 

What will the new roadway look like?
The new First Street will look much like First Street today.  Each travel lane will be increased 5 feet to accommodate bicycles.  New Royal Palms, sidewalks and lighting reminiscent of early Fort Myers will complete the project.

When the utility replacement project is completed, is First Street still going to be a two lane one-way street?  I have heard First Street will be changed to a two-way street in the future.
First Street from Fowler Street to Seaboard Street will continue to be a two lane one-way street.  Currently, Florida DOT owns First Street and Second Street EAST of Fowler Street.  Discussions have taken place between the City and Florida DOT; however, there is currently no formal agreement to transfer ownership from Florida DOT to the City of Fort Myers.  The City plans to begin the first step in a process necessary to obtain ownership by performing a Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study on Second & Seaboard streets from Fowler Street to SR 80/Palm Beach Boulevard.  Once the PD&E study is complete and the City determines the feasibility of ownership, design for the new roadway must be developed and right-of-way must be acquired.  A four-lane (two lanes in each direction) Second Street must be constructed and “open to traffic” before ownership of the two roads can change.  This process typically takes 8 to 10 years.

Florida DOT recently transferred ownership of First Street and Second Street WEST of Fowler Street to the City of Fort Myers.

How long will the utility replacement project last?
Project completion is expected in Spring/Summer 2008.  It is not unusual in underground projects such as this one for the contractor’s scope of work to change or increase due to unforeseen underground conditions.   Weather may also affect the construction schedule.

What is the cost for this utility replacement project?
Construction cost for this project is approximately $11 million.               

Does the city need to acquire property for this project?
The city does not need to acquire property for this project, but is requesting easements from some property owners.  These easements, mainly slope easements, help blend existing ground in with the height of the new roadway. 

Will the drainage improve?
Replacement and expansion of the storm drainage system are included in this project.  The roadbed will also be raised in certain areas to allow for better roadway drainage.  It is important to remember that living in a riverfront community means living in a low-lying area where drainage solutions are complex. 

What will happen to the Royal Palm trees located on either side of the existing road?
Healthy Royal Palm trees will be relocated to Veronica S. Shoemaker Blvd.  Palms are evaluated based on their age, overall health and vigor, degree of difficulty to move due to size, and their projected life.  Once this project is complete, new Royal Palms will be planted on both sides of the roadway.