A proposal by the Lee County Board of County Commissioners that would eliminate nearly all public street parking near Boca Grande’s beach access points is drawing backlash from the surrounding community, who say the plan restricts public access to taxpayer-funded roads and beaches.
On June 17, commissioners advanced a draft ordinance that would ban parking on most public beach access streets in Boca Grande, a barrier island community of fewer than 1,000 full-time residents. The ordinance is expected to go to a vote on August 5. If approved, the measure would restrict beach parking to the Lee County park at 5th Street and nearby state park areas. Dozens of public access points along Gulf Boulevard and side streets would be off-limits for parking, even as the roads themselves continue to be maintained using county tax dollars.
Critics point to a 2009 agreement between Lee County and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection that required the county to preserve public beach access in exchange for participation in state-funded beach renourishment programs. Eliminating on-street parking, they argue, violates the spirit of that agreement.
The proposal has sparked public concern well beyond Boca Grande. Lee County’s population exceeds 860,000, and many residents from surrounding cities regularly visit the island’s beaches. Boca Grande’s full-time population, by comparison, is just 973.
“Florida’s southwest coast offers beautiful beaches and communities that are a draw for Floridians and visitors alike,” said Katie Bauman, Florida Policy Manager for the Surfrider Foundation. “Gasparilla Island and Boca Grande beaches provide incredible recreational opportunities and experiences that the public has long enjoyed. Drastic changes to public parking availability threaten to undermine public access and cause frustration and confusion. Surfrider Foundation’s Paradise Coast Chapter urges Lee County Commissioners to safeguard public beach access and pursue more balanced options for public parking on Gasparilla Island.”
County staff have cited traffic congestion, safety concerns, and requests from Boca Grande property owners as driving factors behind the change. A proposed residential permit system would allow homeowners, local businesses, and employees access to some parking areas—but not the general public.
Opponents of the ordinance are organizing ahead of the August 5 vote, calling on the board to explore compromise solutions such as metered parking, timed access, or off-island shuttles.
The ordinance is scheduled for final consideration at the Lee County Commission meeting in Fort Myers. Members of the public may submit comments online or in person.
