Almost two years have passed since Hurricane Ian swept through Sanibel and Captiva, leaving a profound impact on our islands and community. Among the damage, the transformation we’ve seen on the islands has been extraordinary. The critical Sanibel Causeway, which, as we all know, was damaged in the storm, is still undergoing a significant reconstruction project. The plan is built with resiliency in mind, and the F.D.O.T. is taking what it learned from Hurricane Ian and adding measures to protect the causeway from the possibility of future storm surges.
Looking beyond our causeway, the islands are starting to buzz with activity. This recent Memorial Day weekend, hotels reopened on the islands were booked up, full of people who enjoyed the great weather and visited some of the over 200 businesses that have been back open since the storm! The Sanibel Lighthouse has also had some much-needed love with its restoration project, and the Lighthouse Beach is being renourished with new sand to help it bounce back after the storm caused so much erosion.
Sanibel’s heart lies in its people. Thanks to the efforts of our community, we are so happy to see so many homeowners returning to the islands. While some have chosen to rebuild, others have opted for new construction, adding a new touch to the island.
We’ve been a part of this journey every step of the way. We witnessed the difficulties firsthand, but we also saw the unwavering determination and resilience of the Sanibel community. We knew then that our role went beyond just electrical repairs; it was about rebuilding hope and restoring the comfort of homes.
“Our employees have worked tirelessly over these past 2 years. Not because it’s their job but because we feel our customers’ pain. Each of our customers have their own story and challenges they have faced trying to put it all back together.”
We are so blessed to be a part of such a resilient community and we are so honored to be chosen by so many residents to help rebuild their storm damaged home. Our employees have worked tirelessly over these past 2 years. Not because it’s their job but because we feel our customers’ pain. Each one of our customers have their own story of damage to their homes and the challenges they have faced trying to put it all back together. Our team is not only fixing the hurricane damage but also a shoulder to cry on, quite literally. We still get calls to this day from customers still negotiating with the insurance companies. They need copies of paid invoices, letters certifying we have done the repairs, and breakdown of invoices because only certain damage is covered under their policy. A good part of our day is still speaking to FEMA agents and insurance adjusters who need clarification of work we performed. We have the best office staff led by my office manager who never stops until the job is done right.
Today, we feel immense pride as we look around at the progress. We’re proud of the island’s resilience, proud of our community’s unwavering spirit, and proud to have contributed to Sanibel and Captiva’s remarkable comeback. While the progress made is undeniable, it’s important to acknowledge that Sanibel and Captiva are still on a road to recovery. We believe in the island’s bright future and are dedicated to being a part of it. Together, we’ll continue to help rebuild, restore, and lay the electrical foundation for a future that’s as bright as our island spirit.
There are many ways that our community has come together to support one another. If you need assistance or would like to help in some way, F.I.S.H. of San Cap can be a great resource for you.
Sanibel Air & Electric has been serving Sanibel, Captiva and Lee County’s coastal communities since 1988. For more information about our HVAC and Electrical services, please call 239-395-COOL (2665).
Thanks for reading,
Sanibel Air & Electric
