LEE COUNTY, Fla. -- In an effort to help local businesses hurt by lingering red tide, drivers heading to Sanibel Island this weekend will have a chance to visit the barrier islands toll-free.
Lee County officials announced Thursday that between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on September 22nd and 23rd, the $6 toll will not be charged.
The cost is being covered by a donation from the Southwest Florida Community Foundation, who want to encourage locals to support Sanibel and Captiva businesses.
The City of Sanibel has suspended parking fees at all Sanibel beaches this month.
Events are scheduled on Captiva this weekend as the annual Island Hopper Songwriter Festival kicks off.
The Southwest Florida Community Foundation is also maintaining a separate SWFL Cares fund that is being dispersed through local non-profits to help those affected by red tide and blue-green algae.
