Sanibel Lighthouse in need of refurbishment
Posted on Thu, Sep 23, 2010
Arguably the most iconic symbol on Sanibel Island is in need of repair, and island officials are pushing for a makeover.
In an attempt to refurbish the Sanibel Lighthouse, which has been standing since the end of the Civil War, the town has applied for a 2012 Special Category Grant from the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Historic Preservation, looking to clean up years of weathering to this area landmark.
As part of its application, Sanibel sought out local residents and vacationers and asked them to submit letters of support expressing the positive sentiments and importance of the lighthouse; what it means to the area and how it serves as a beacon of light, both literally and figuratively.
If it receives the grant, Sanibel would pay additional $100,000 for the fix-up, totaling a $270,000 renovation. If it does not receive the grant, an effort to give the lighthouse a face lift is still in the works – as the city plans to seek private donations to come up with the dollar amount they have applied to receive from the federal government. Clearly, the preservation of this lighthouse is a primary concern to everyone on Sanibel.
Just up the street from our Sanibel luxury vacation rental, Lighthouse Beach is a must-visit for anyone spending time in Sanibel Island. It’s home to an abundance of shells, a fishing pier, and even access to nature trails that take you though some of the island's natural wetlands. Learn more about the Sanibel lighthouse by visiting LighthouseFriends.com.