Lehigh Spring with history dating back thousands of years, that’s the jewel neighbors claim that is hidden in the middle of Lehigh Acres. Now, they want the county to buy it and protect it from development. But at what cost to the taxpayers?
It’s technically a sinkhole off Joel Boulevard, but even more off the beaten path in Lehigh Acres — one that’s filled with water over the years.
But where some see this as a small lake — this pair sees a lot more.
There’s a great archaeological value in that spring, just like one in Sarasota, said Ruth Anglickis.
According to some residents in Lehigh Acres, they want Lee County 20/20 program to buy this 19-acre piece of property from a private developer and preserve it. They say the Lehigh Spring here has deep roots — dating back 14,000 years and more than 200 feet down.
But the county staff is flinching at price. If the county bought the land, the asking price is $1.3 million, but the costs don’t end there. It could cost another $500,000 to restore it, then $42,000 a year for upkeep according to the county.
Supporters say it’d be a great place to build a park — maybe a museum with artifacts found below.
County commissioners will have the final say when they take it up next Tuesday March 4.
I’m an owner at the resort……….fished there many years ago. Hope the town keeps this as a Schrine