The water project would store large volumes of excess water from the Caloosahatchee River and prevents local runoff from entering the estuary. The project also rehydrates natural systems that eventually flow south into the Everglades and preserves ranch and farmland from future development and urban sprawl. Taxpayers benefit as Alico Water Resources' project is five times as cost-effective as other public projects and land remains in tax base of the local community. The project is one of several currently in the permitting process for the Southwest Florida region, but it represents the most substantial share of water storage and treatment of all the proposed projects. The project has the estimated ability to store and treat 92,000 acre-feet of water annually – or 30 billion gallons. Alico is deeply ingrained in the Fort Myers community, where it has been a major employer and community partner for decades. Alico pledged $250,000 to local relief organizations in response to Hurricane Irma in September 2017. Alico’s impact on the community is wide-reaching, from its philanthropic endeavors to the roads, buildings, and communities that bear its name. Numerous local small businesses also reflect the Alico name. In 1992, Alico donated 760 acres of land for the construction of Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU). FGCU’s campus arena opened in 2002 and is called Alico Arena. The FGCU Eagles men’s and women’s basketball teams and volleyball team compete there. Roads and Communities Named after Alico, Inc.:  Alico Road  Alico Mission Way  Alico Center  Alico Commons  Alico Lakes Village  Alico Crossing Center  Alico Commercial Park  Alico Estates  Alico Enterprise Center  Alico Industrial Park  Alico Interchange Park Condominium