Sanibel Solutions: A Community-Led Path Forward
Our Mission:
To accelerate Sanibel’s hurricane recovery through transparent, collaborative strategies that reflect the island’s unique challenges—building a resilient and economically sustainable future.
Our Vision:
A thriving Sanibel where recovery is inclusive, data-driven, and guided by strong civic partnerships.
Why Now?
Nearly three years after Hurricane Ian, key challenges remain. In response, a group of residents, business owners, and civic leaders has formed Sanibel Solutions—a coalition committed to shaping a strategic, long-term recovery plan for the islands.
Questions?
For specific metrics and data sources or to request additional recovery information, please contact: info@sanibelsolutions.com
📊 Recovery Snapshot - May 2025
May’s recovery dashboard highlights Sanibel’s progress in key areas since Hurricane Ian. Here are five metrics at a glance:
- Overall business activity: ~63% of pre-Ian levels.
- Restaurants reopened: 64% of pre-Ian restaurants are back in operation.
- Chamber membership: 80% of local businesses have rejoined the Chamber of Commerce.
- Lodging occupancy: About 66% of hotel and short-term rental capacity is filled.
- Island traffic: Causeway crossings are at 82% of pre-storm volume.
📊 Chamber Pulse – May Survey (60 businesses)
- Average business health: 6.0 / 10
- 63 % expect conditions to improve next season
- 42 % saw revenue grow versus last year
(Survey period : May 19 – 29, SanCap Chamber of Commerce)
(Want to dive deeper into the data? View the Live Dashboard → or Chamber Survey Results → )
💬 Voices from the Island
Small Business – Rachel Pierce (Local Business Owner): “This summer is all about perseverance and creativity for our island businesses. We’re not at 100% yet, but the support from locals and returning visitors grows stronger every day.”
Real Estate – Bill Robinson (CEO of the Sanibel and Captiva Islands Association of Realtors): "Every week, more homes and condos are getting repaired and coming back on the market. Buyers see Sanibel's long-term value, and that's keeping our real estate resilient."
Chamber of Commerce – John Lai (President/CEO, SanCap Chamber): “Summer is typically quieter, but we’re actively spreading the word that Sanibel is open for business. With more restaurants and shops reopening, we anticipate visitor numbers will keep ticking up.”
