Island Connectivity

Fort Myers Beach is located on Estero Island, a 6 mile-long barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico. The island is connected to the mainland by two bridges, Matanzas Pass Bridge to the north and Big Carlos Pass Bridge to the south. Estero Boulevard serves as the main route across the island. Neighborhoods are organized along streets and canals that link the bayfront to the beach. The commercial center of the island is located at the base of Matanzas Pass Bridge and along Old San Carlos Boulevard. This island is designated by FEMA as a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) and properties are mapped in either the Flood Zone VE or AE. Both Flood Zone VE and AE are at high-risk of flooding and are often referred to as the 100-year flood zone. In addition to flooding from heavy rain events, the island has additional exposure due to storm surge. As recovery continues, it is important to understand flood designations and regulations to build back stronger and more resilient.