Dan Sheppard

Cape Coral, with its extensive canal system and vibrant boating community, faces a crucial decision: the removal of the Chiquita Lock. The lock was installed in the 1980s as a measure to protect the local environment. Many citizens now see the lock as an outdated structure that hinders the city’s potential. For Cape Coral to move forward both environmentally and economically, the Chiquita Lock needs to be removed.

An obsolete structure in a modern era

Originally the lock was installed as a crucial component in the city’s toolbox of environmental protection measures. Since then, advancements in environmental management have greatly reduced the need for this structure. Modern stormwater management techniques have allowed us to control pollution and nutrient runoff without a need for the lock. In today’s context, the lock is unnecessary. The city has made substantial progress in upgrading the stormwater systems. This has enabled us to ensure that water quality can be maintained even after the lock’s removal.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has approved our plan to remove the lock, citing that the city’s plans to enhance water treatment and restore nearby wetlands will mitigate any environmental concerns. The city has committed to an environmental strategy that includes monitoring of water quality and restoration of mangrove habitats. The DEP Environmental Resource Permit that we have acquired covers more than just the lock. We will also install a 165-foot linear seawall along the north end of the South Spreader waterbody, plant over 3,000 mangrove seedlings, and install oyster reef balls in the footprint of the lock once it is removed. These efforts allow us to offset any potential negative impacts.

Unlocking the potential of Cape Coral’s waterways

One of the most compelling reasons to remove the lock is the barrier it creates for navigation. With Cape Coral’s reputation as a premier waterfront community growing, the demand for smoother access to the Gulf of Mexico has increased dramatically. The Chiquita Lock has become known as a massive bottleneck for boaters, particularly during holidays or even on the weekend. These delays have led to community-wide frustration.

The removal of the lock will allow boaters free access to the Gulf without the congestion. It is hard to overstate the economic benefits that the community will enjoy when the removal is complete. This improved navigation would not only enhance the lives of boaters but also help to bolster the local economy. The property values of real estate along our canals are expected to rise, and local businesses such as marinas or waterfront restaurants would benefit from the increased traffic brought on by the removal of the lock.

Looking toward the future

Cape Coral is at a pivotal moment in its development. Removing the lock is not just about alleviating boater congestion; it’s about laying the groundwork for a thriving, modern waterfront city. In the past the lock had an important purpose. Today, it is an obstacle to our growth and the real untapped economic opportunity the Cape has.

As the city prepares for this next chapter, the removal of the lock represents progress. Cape Coral will maintain its commitment to environmental sustainability all while embracing the economic opportunities that arise with improved access to our waterways. By removing the Chiquita Lock, we will take a step forward to unlocking the full potential of the city for our residents, businesses, and visitors.

— Dan Sheppard represents District 2 on the Cape Coral City Council