The Sanibel Fishing Pier, a beloved spot for many, has been in disrepair since Hurricane Ian struck more than two years ago. Now, dedicated fishers are pushing to restore it using private funding.

A red tide bloom has lingered along the coast since late last summer, conditions vary from natural levels to 1 million cells per liter and higher.

The island experienced about 5 feet of storm surge, and the city is waiting for floodwaters to recede. There was no substantial damage to the Sanibel Causeway, Chaipel stated.