When thinking about Sanibel Island real estate, roads and pedestrian bike and walk paths might not be the first things that come to mind, but it’s worth consideration.
A brief history of our islands reveals that the layout and development of Sanibel Island is very intentional. May of 1963 marks the construction of the first Sanibel causeway, prior to that, residents and visitors took a ferry to and from the island. With increased accessibility to the islands, residents established the Sanibel Comprehensive Land Use Plan (the Sanibel Plan) in 1974 to preserve the integrity, culture, and ecology that makes Sanibel and Captiva Islands so special.
Those plans that were set into motion over 40 years ago established a standard on the beautiful islands that we experience today. The Sanibel Plan includes guidelines for factors such as building heights, commercial real estate, and the amount and direction of secondary light sources. Sanibel remains a quaint sanctuary, light pollution is mitigated, and female turtles can find the beach and water at night, able nest without confusion from unnatural light.
It’s no wonder that more developed places are starting to implement some of the aspects Sanibel has to provide a healthier and more vibrant lifestyle. Florida Weekly’s article, “Paving it Forward,” presented the importance and application of current and future road development in Southwest Florida. Plans will accommodate expected population growth and include pedestrian biking and walking paths. Lee County residents are advocates for this growing demand, particularly through the organization BikeWalkLee.
It’s also no wonder that Sanibel Island is a top destination, even ranking as #8 on U.S. News top 12 beaches in the world, and last month the Today Show featured Sanibel Island as the number one vacation destination. Even amidst the attention, the Sanibel Plan has protected the islands to remain pure and preserved.
Come visit and experience the richness of life available on Sanibel. Find some shells on the beach, explore the entire island under tree canopied bike paths, stargaze on the beach at night after an excellent meal at one of the many unique restaurants. And who knows, maybe you’ll want to extend your stay.
Interested in Sanibel Island Real Estate? Let John R Wood Properties help. Contact us or search our MLS for available properties on Sanibel and in the surrounding Southwest Florida region.
