Recovery and response

Organizations and businesses statewide were involved in Hurricane Irma preparations and response — including two area airports that have recently received some notoriety for the work.

Punta Gorda Airport in Charlotte County designated its baggage claim area as a shelter for residents with special needs. Airport staff remained at the facility during the hurricane to manage operations, according to a press release.

After Irma, the airport was a staging area for Florida Power & Light Co. The day after the storm, the airport says 2,000 service trucks arrived on site. A day later, 2,000 more trucks arrived on the scene. The airport served as a central point for refueling, sleeping and eating as crews worked to get homes and businesses back on line.