River’s Edge community in North Fort Myers looking for solution to growing debris pile

The River’s Edge community on West North Shore Avenue in North Fort Myers is struggling with an ever-growing pile of storm debris.

Nicolas Imbriaco lives in the community and is frustrated and wants to see all the debris gone or at least get an answer as to when it will be.

“Two boats came off the harbor that we’re out in the river or whatever, and just like demolished all these homes,” said Imbriaco

Despite some roof damage, Imbriaco says he was lucky Hurricane Ian did not destroy his home. He still has to deal with the aftermath, though. Debris from the storm has piled so high that it almost looks like a landfill.

“And we understand, you know, with the waste, like they do have to make a big pile and then come and clean it up. But we would at least appreciate the respect of knowing that they’re not gonna leave trash and harmful things like nails, stuff like that right next to our driveway,” said Imbriaco.

Imbriaco says the debris from the River’s Edge community is being collected and dumped in the pile to get picked up at another time. He says he hopes things don’t get worse and communication gets better.

“For now, we have paid our rent. And we’re hoping that the damages will be resolved and we can continue to live here before mold starts spreading to the rest of my home,” Imbriaco said.

David Thomas lives in the same community. His home is OK, but he feels for his neighbors dealing with damage from the storm.

“My heart goes out to these people. Just walking around seeing toys and seeing personal items from children that you know, their loss is, you know, it just hits me too hard,” said Thomas.

Thomas says he’s grateful for the people working sun up to sun down to help the community rebuild.

“They’re doing all they can. They have trucks in and out here. They got heavy equipment out back. I mean, as you can see, when you go back there, you will see it. It’s just horrific,” Thomas said, “And they’re doing all they can to make it right.”

WINK News called the phone number for the community’s management company, and it went straight to voicemail with a full voicemail box.