In the Florida Keys, communities stand ready to assist in a time of need — such was the case for one elderly Key Largo woman needing easier access to her home.
During a hot June morning, construction crews ripped away a series of old wooden stairs and constructed a new ramp for 81-year-old Key Largo resident Glenda Scott. Thanks to the work of two local businesses and members of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, a new ramp was constructed to provide better and safer access for Scott’s Hibiscus Drive residence — and it came at no cost to her.
In late May, Monroe County Social Services called the sheriff’s office to relay Scott’s challenging situation. Set to turn 82 in August, Scott had to climb a set of steps in order to reach her door. It wasn’t an ideal situation for Scott, who couldn’t use her wheelchair or walker to reach her home.
Eventually, the message reached Sgt. James Hager. When he wasn’t on duty responding to calls, Hager made some phone calls to gauge who might be able to help Scott. Hager happened to find two willing partners in KLI Hardware and Mike Rundgren and CBT Construction and Chris Trentine.
“I called Chris Trentine and he said, ‘Whatever you need, we’ll do it.’ His guys came out and took pictures to figure out the plans,” Hager said. “I called Mike about the supplies and he said he had no problem helping out.”
Hager said the planning began May 30. By June 2, CBT construction crews were ready to replace the old stairs with a new ramp. Hager said the county helped by signing off on the project.
“They made sure this was going to happen,” Hager said.
All the lumber for the project, estimated around $1,000, was graciously donated by KLI Hardware and Rundgren.
Scott said the ramp will make life a little easier when she comes and goes from the house. She’s lived in the Keys since the late 1950s. She expressed her appreciation to all the companies and individuals involved in the project.
“I was sitting here thinking that sometimes people don’t care. When you look at all the things, there are people who care,” Scott said as she watched crews put the ramp in place.
Hager said Scott was quite pleased with the outcome.
“It’s a nice, sturdy ramp,” Hager said. “It’s not rinky-dink.”
By the end of the day, two crews from CBT Construction ripped out the old stairs, leveled the surface with concrete and placed the new wooden ramp at Scott’s home. Deputies stood ready to assist in the effort.
“This is the stuff the sheriff talks about, community partnerships and teaming with local partners to help a 30-year resident,” said Lt. Chuck Kellenberger. “It’s not all about crime fighting.”
The sheriff’s office plans to present certificates of appreciation to CBT Construction and KLI Hardware.
Scott said she loves the Keys community and her Hibiscus Drive neighborhood.
“Here, we consider everybody as family. One always helps the other one,” Scott said.
