Beach Park & Ride lot to close next Wednesday
The Park & Ride lot used by passengers taking the LeeTran trolley to Fort Myers Beach will close starting Wed., Jan. 7, due to construction of a new Wal-Mart.
The land, formerly a shopping center known as Summerlin Square, is located at the southeast corner of the intersection of Summerlin Road and San Carlos Blvd. Instead of parking at that location, drivers should continue south on San Carlos Blvd., turn right on Main St. and park in the county-owned lot on the left side.
LeeTran had used the Summerlin Square parking lot since 1987. When Wal-Mart purchased the site, LeeTran was allowed to continue its use until construction began.
“We have been looking for an interim location for months, but haven’t yet found a landowner interested in a short-term lease,” Transit Director Steve Myers said. “We’re continuing to explore short-term options and will keep the community notified as that process progresses.”
Considerations of safety and ADA-access are involved in the selection of a suitable site, he explained.
In the meantime, LeeTran will place a supervisor at the former Park & Ride location to assist with transfers and directions to the alternate parking site.
LeeTran riders and beach-goers can call 533-8726 and press option 1. Or riders can check www.rideleetran.com for the latest information.
Longterm, LeeTran has a contract to purchase a nearby 5.5-acre parcel of land at 11101 Summerlin Square Drive for a permanent location.
-submitted by Joann Haley