The Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) https://leempo.com/, in its draft 2050 Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), has identified over $4 billion in transportation infrastructure requirements. The MPO consolidates requirements from FDOT, LC DOT for Unincorporated Lee County, City of FT Myers, Sanibel, Bonita Springs, and the Village of Estero. The 2050 LRTP can be found at https://leempo.com/plans/long-range-transportation-plan/.
The Lee County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) and Lee County municipalities use different funding sources for transportation infrastructure.
How does Lee County pay for Road Improvements?
- Gas tax (which is flat and projected to decrease with more electric vehicles)
- Proportionate Share (negotiated for each new development, with restrictions, and must be used in the general area)
- Road Impact fees (restrictions and must be used in the general area)
- General fund
- Unused tolls
Municipalities also use a combination of funding sources for transportation infrastructure.
Unfortunately, transportation infrastructure requirements have far exceeded the funds available. What this means for traveling throughout Lee County and its municipalities is that it will become increasingly complex and time-consuming to get where you need to be. Unfortunately, there appears to be no immediate relief in sight…