Beach Council seeks amber LED lights to protect nesting turtles from traffic hazards

In a recent city council meeting held on February 19, 2025, in Bonita Springs, concerns over the safety of nesting sea turtles took center stage. A representative from Turtle Time, an organization dedicated to the protection of marine life, addressed the council, highlighting the dangers posed by existing street lighting along the beach. The bright lights are reportedly confusing female turtles and their hatchlings, leading them toward the road instead of back to the Gulf.

The representative proposed a solution: replacing current street lights with amber LED lights, which are less disruptive to the turtles. This change, they argued, would allow the lights to remain on year-round without endangering the local wildlife. The council learned that Fort Myers Beach is already undertaking a similar project, retrofitting their street lights with amber LEDs, funded by a state grant.

The discussion also touched on the responsibility of Florida Power and Light (FP&L) to upgrade the lighting. City staff confirmed they have reached out to FP&L regarding this issue but have not received a favorable response. In an effort to escalate the matter, council members considered drafting a letter to FP&L, possibly co-signed by local representatives, to formally request the necessary changes.

The meeting underscored the city’s commitment to environmental stewardship and the importance of collaboration between local government and utility providers. As the council deliberates on the best course of action, the future of Bonita Springs’ street lighting remains intertwined with the safety of its beloved sea turtles.