First Street downtown open, Second Street now closed

FLORIDA WEEKLY First Street in downtown Fort Myers is open to through traffic after months of construction. Old, refurbished bricks have been cleaned and reused in the streetscape portion of the utility replacement project.

"It's exciting," said Lynne Routhier, owner of Enjewel, a shop for unique jewelry, handbags and gifts located on First Street. "It generates more traffic flow and my business has increased since the street has opened up. People are amazed at how beautiful it looks."

The city of Fort Myers began the Downtown Utility Replacement and Streetscape Improvements Project in late 2005. While this project beautifies downtown Fort Myers, more importantly, it's a utility replacement project. Newly completed streets include First Street, Bay Street, Broadway, Dean Street, Jackson Street, Lee Street, and Richmond Street. Hendry Street and Main Street are currently under

construction and are scheduled

to be completed this winter.

Second Street from Lee Street to Royal Palm Avenue (not including the Second/Royal Palm intersection) is closed in preparation for the next phase of the streetscape project. Second Street (from Lee Street to Fowler Street) is also closed.

The remaining portion of Second Street from Royal Palm Avenue will close the following week.

During the city of Fort Myers Downtown Utility & Streetscape Improvements Project, roads are opening and closing frequently due to utility replacement work.

This schedule is subject to change due to inclement weather and unforeseen underground conditions.

Bay Street, Jackson Street and First Street can all be used by eastbound and westbound traffic at this time.