Ben Franklin Drive lights still dark until 2027
Summary
Streetlights along Benjamin Franklin Drive have been out since the 2024 hurricanes; repairs to 144 damaged poles won't go out to bid until early 2027, frustrating residents who want the work sped up.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 2
Discussed at 1 meeting in the last 60 days; most recently Oct 19, 2026.
Impact analysis
Total project cost $718,463, with the city's $118,426 share coming from city hurricane reserves rather than FEMA funds.
Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians along the waterfront drive who get working streetlights and safer conditions.
Lido Key residents who have lived with unlit streets since the 2024 storms.
Mentions & discussions (2)
City Commission (Regular) - Oct 19, 2026
More than two years after the 2024 hurricanes, 144 damaged light poles and 93 missing panels along Ben Franklin Drive remain unrepaired because federal reimbursement rules stalled the process. Bidding won't start until early 2027.
City Commission (Regular) - Oct 19, 2026
Streetlights along Benjamin Franklin Drive have been out since the 2024 hurricanes; repairs to 144 damaged poles won't go out to bid until early 2027, frustrating residents who want the work sped up.
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