CRA announces Storm Mitigation and Resiliency Grant recipients

02/10/2026

The Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) recently approved two Storm Mitigation and Resiliency Grants.  

The new program is designed to strengthen the economic heartbeat of Downtown Fort Myers by equipping local businesses with tools and strategies to withstand and recover from severe weather events.

The grants reimburse up to 75 percent of the cost of eligible pre- and post-storm mitigation equipment and resiliency improvements, with a maximum reimbursement of $100,000.00 per business.

To be eligible, businesses must be located within the designated impact area; be a commercial business that includes retail, restaurants or professional services and be in compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations. Priority consideration will be applied to businesses that demonstrate clear need, historic value or community benefit.

The boundaries for eligible businesses are as follows: North: Edwards Dr.; East: N. Tamiami Trial (Edison Bridge); South: First Street; West: S. Cleveland Ave. (Caloosahatchee Bridge).

To date, 8 businesses have received grants in the pilot area amounting to $442,977.58.

The program covers pre-storm mitigation, post-storm resiliency and planning/assessment costs. Eligible expenses include:

  •  Protective Barriers: Hurricane shutters, impact-resistant windows and doors, deployable flood barriers.
  • Water Management Systems: Sump pumps, backflow preventers, elevated electrical systems, dry floodproofing materials.
  • Structural Reinforcement: Roof strapping, bracing for awnings and signs, securing external fixtures.
  • Generator Systems: Purchase and installation of generators to maintain essential operations during power outages.
  • Hardening of Exterior Elements: Secure fencing, reinforced signage, tie-downs for outdoor furniture.
  • Dehumidification/Drying Equipment: Industrial dehumidifiers, air movers, and specialized drying equipment for water damage.
  • Clean-up & Debris Removal Equipment: Specialized tools for debris handling (excluding general waste disposal services).
  • Temporary Power Solutions: Temporary power distribution systems, power cords, and associated safety equipment.
  • Communication Equipment: Communication equipment and alternative internet connectivity solutions for post-storm operations.
  • Data backup & Recovery Systems: Hardware or software solutions specifically for localized data protection and rapid restoration (does not cover cloud services or general IT infrastructure).
  • Costs associated with professional assessments (e.g., structural engineering, flood vulnerability assessments) directly related to identifying and planning for eligible mitigation improvements.

General repairs, operating costs, insurance premiums and purchases made before grant approval are not eligible.

More information can be accessed at https://fortmyerscra.com/incentives/downtown-storm-mitigation-and-resiliency-grant-program/