Category: SWFL Update

JetBlue Park at Fenway South, the iconic Spring Training home of the Boston Red Sox in Fort Myers, is about to make history. On June 14, the ballpark will welcome its first-ever stadium-style concert, headlined by none other than country music superstar Luke Bryan.

This special event marks a major milestone in transforming JetBlue Park into a year-round entertainment venue. With a career spanning chart-topping hits and award-winning albums, Bryan is set to deliver an unforgettable night for fans in Southwest Florida.

A Star-Studded Lineup

Joining Luke Bryan on stage are rising stars in country music:

• Conner Smith

• Ashland Craft

• Adrien Nunez

Plus, DJ Rock will also bring the energy as part of the evening’s lineup.

“This is a landmark moment for JetBlue Park,” said Sam Kennedy, President & CEO of the Boston Red Sox. “For over a decade, the ballpark has brought the spirit of Fenway to Fort Myers through baseball. Now, we’re thrilled to bring the magic of live music with Luke Bryan leading the way. This is just the beginning of something truly special.”

Bryan’s Country Legacy

With 22.6 billion global streams, 96.5 million certified digital single units, and 11.5 million albums sold, Luke Bryan is the most digitally certified country artist in Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) history.

His accolades include:

• 31 No. 1 singles

• 50+ major music awards

• 5-time Entertainer of the Year

• First-ever ACM Album of the Decade Award for Crash My Party

• Billboard’s Top Country Artist of the 2010s

• Humanitarian and industry honors for his charitable work through music

What to Expect at the Show

• Date: Friday, June 14

• Parking Opens: 3:00 PM (credit card only – $30 per vehicle)

• Gates Open: 5:00 PM

• Concert Time: 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM

• Tickets: Starting at $72.50 at redsox.com/lukebryan

Food and beverages will be available, similar to Spring Training events. Guests can enjoy fan-favorite ballpark fare like burgers, hotdogs, popcorn, and beer. Specialty vendors such as Del’s Lemonade, Dippin’ Dots, and Maine Shack will also be serving up treats and New England seafood favorites.

Safety & Entry Guidelines

The Boston Red Sox are committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all concertgoers. Here’s what to know:

• No tailgating is allowed

• All guests will be screened via metal detectors

• Only small, single-compartment bags are permitted

• Abusive behavior or hate speech will not be tolerated

For a full list of prohibited items and the guest Code of Conduct, visit MLB.com.

Venue Information

JetBlue Park at Fenway South
11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers, FL

The Town of Fort Myers Beach has once again extended the completion date for its beach renourishment project, now aiming to wrap up by June 30—more than six months later than originally scheduled. This marks the fourth delay since February.

Environmental Progress Amid Delays

Despite delays caused by equipment failures and dredging pipe leaks, the southern segment of the beach—home to the island’s most sensitive shorebird nesting areas—was completed on May 18. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has confirmed 250 least tern nests, black skimmer, snowy plover, and Wilson’s plover nests with active chicks on site.

Turtle Time has already relocated 12 loggerhead sea turtle nests since May 1 to safeguard against disruptions from the ongoing work. The FWC and Turtle Time continue to monitor and protect nesting wildlife, with critical zones taped off accordingly.

Delays and Permits

Originally set to finish in January 2025, the $21.7 million contract with Ahtna Marine and Construction Company has significantly exceeded its 180–195 day timeline. The contractor faces penalties of $750 per day for delays. Despite a formal protest from Callan Marine, Ahtna was awarded the project last year.

Delays have been attributed to impacts from Hurricanes Milton and Helene, as well as subsequent equipment breakdowns. Although initial work began on the northern end of the island, erosion-heavy areas like Leonardo Arms weren’t addressed until February.

Remaining Work and Safety Alerts

Current work focuses on the mid-island area, from Lanark Street to Newton Beach Park. Exposed dredging pipes remain visible in some areas and can be disorienting to nesting sea turtles. Residents and visitors—especially those with mobility issues—are advised to tread carefully on the newly placed and still-deep sand, especially near Leonardo Arms and Crescente Condominium.

Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt praised the restoration around Leonardo Arms, calling the transformation “spectacular.” However, Councilmember John King voiced concern that the southern tip of the island might still require additional sand placement. The town is awaiting state legislative funding for potential hot spot maintenance or emergency sand permits.

Permit Compliance and Wildlife Protection

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) granted the town its third extension through May 15 in the South Beach Segment. The DEP permit prohibits activity within the Little Estero Island Critical Wildlife Area from April 1 to August 31.

FWC ensures compliance with daily shorebird surveys and nesting protections. While it’s preferable for such projects to occur outside of nesting season, the town’s efforts aim to restore essential habitat for shorebirds and sea turtles alike.

What’s Next?

Demobilization is expected in early July. The project continues under close monitoring from FWC, DEP, and conservation groups, striving to balance environmental protection with long-term coastal restoration.

In a closely watched decision, the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council has officially approved the Arches Bayfront project — a large-scale hotel and commercial development planned for the Moss Marina site — with a 4-1 vote. Mayor Dan Allers stood alone in opposition, citing concerns over public benefit, traffic, and neighborhood impact.

A New Era for Moss Marina

The approved rezoning clears the way for a 263-room hotel development — a structure nearly 30 feet taller than the nearby Margaritaville Beach Resort. The project will feature five buildings, with the tallest reaching seven stories and 81 feet in height. This exceeds the town’s existing code, which limits height to 35 feet and three stories.

Voting in favor were Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt, and Councilmembers John King, Scott Safford, and Karen Woodson. The approval came with over 30 conditions recommended by town staff to help address public and community concerns.

Notable Deviations from Code

In addition to the height variance, developers were granted a 50% reduction in required parking — despite town staff recommending only a 33% reduction as a compromise. The approved plan includes 338 parking spaces (293 for hotel/marina guests and 45 for the public), well below the 586 required by code.

Concerns were raised about the adequacy of parking, particularly given Fort Myers Beach’s traffic congestion during peak season. Allers questioned why a traffic or parking study was not conducted in advance. However, council ultimately agreed to allow the developer to conduct a post-construction parking study.

A Divided Debate Over Public Benefit

At the heart of the controversy was the question: does Arches Bayfront provide sufficient public benefit?

While Margaritaville Resort secured its approvals partly by offering public land and parking in exchange, the Arches project proposed a linear park, a bayfront promenade, and a 14,000 sq. ft. water ferry facility as its key public amenities.

The water ferry system, with planned stops mid-island and at the southern end, was pitched as a way to alleviate traffic. Vice Mayor Atterholt enthusiastically supported the idea, advocating for a third stop at the historic Mound House. Mayor Allers, however, remained skeptical, arguing the ferry offered minimal real-world benefit and functioned more as a revenue stream than a true public service.

“If it takes the same time as driving — and you have to pay for it — how is that practical?” Allers asked.

Neighborhood Concerns: Privacy, Noise, and Flooding

The project has drawn considerable opposition from nearby residents worried about the impact on their privacy, quality of life, and neighborhood character. Concerns include the height of the buildings overlooking private yards, potential increases in traffic, noise, and long-standing drainage issues.

To address some of these issues, developers proposed a concrete wall and landscaping buffer along property lines and a new drainage pipe on Third Street to redirect water away from vulnerable homes. However, negotiations with neighbors are ongoing, particularly regarding easements and the placement of drainage infrastructure.

The sunset deck became a specific point of contention, with residents asking for more robust visual screening. The developer agreed only to minor setbacks and landscaping. Outdoor live music on the rooftop deck was also debated. Though initially restricted by staff, the council reversed the ban, citing consistency with nearby Old San Carlos restaurants.

What’s Planned for Arches Bayfront?

The mixed-use development includes:

• A 263-room hotel

• Several restaurants, including a rooftop dining space

• A bodega and outdoor market

• A children’s splash pad

• Bayfront promenade and pedestrian pathways

• Commercial and retail spaces

• A water ferry terminal

• Parking garage with limited public parking

According to developer representative Ben Freeland, construction is expected to begin “in a few years.” The Freeland family, which owns the Moss Marina property, plans to lease hotel and retail operations once the development is completed.

Arches Bayfront hotel

Arches Bayfront hotel

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A Post-Ian Redevelopment Vision

The Moss Marina property played a key role in the community’s recovery after Hurricane Ian, temporarily housing a U.S. Coast Guard base. This redevelopment marks a significant shift in land use and vision for the site — from marina and boat storage to a modern hospitality and retail hub.

Final Thoughts

Despite the council’s approval, the Arches Bayfront project remains polarizing. Supporters cite economic revitalization and modern amenities; opponents worry about overdevelopment, infrastructure strain, and erosion of community character.

With groundbreaking still years away, the project’s next phases — including negotiations with neighbors, further permitting, and the eventual build-out — will be closely monitored by residents and stakeholders alike.

Cape Coral has secured a significant $900,000 grant from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) to permanently protect 1.34 acres of vital burrowing owl habitat. This grant will conserve five city-owned lots located between Tropicana Boulevard and Pine Island Road in northwest Cape Coral.

As part of the agreement, the city provided conservation easements for each lot to Big Waters Land Trust, a nonprofit organization responsible for maintaining these easements, ensuring the land remains protected indefinitely. While Big Waters Land Trust holds the easements, the City of Cape Coral will continue to own and manage these properties in collaboration with Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife.

Burrowing owls, classified as threatened due to habitat loss, thrive on these properties. Cape Coral boasts Florida’s largest population of these small, ground-dwelling owls, estimated at approximately 1,000 nesting pairs. Protecting these lots is crucial to conserving the species, which relies heavily on open, treeless spaces for survival.

Funding for this landmark initiative stems from mitigation fees collected to offset the impacts of development on burrowing owl habitats. This grant marks the first time the FWC has provided this specific type of funding aimed at protecting the burrowing owl.

Big Waters Land Trust, headquartered in Osprey, Florida, has a strong track record, having protected over 20,000 acres across multiple counties including Lee, Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, Collier, Hillsborough, Hardee, DeSoto, and Glades since its establishment in 2003.

Fort Myers is turning a new chapter.

Joe’s Crab Shack, the beloved waterfront restaurant on First Street near the Caloosahatchee Bridge, has officially closed its doors after its lease ended. For years, this spot wasn’t just about seafood — it was about memories.

Locals are feeling the loss deeply. Some even stopped by to collect mementos, like the iconic Joe’s Crab Shack shark sign, which was rescued from a dumpster by sentimental fans.

But while the goodbye is bittersweet, excitement is brewing about what’s coming next.

Lifelong Fort Myers resident Paige Rausch reflected on her memories at Joe’s, recalling high school celebrations and prom nights spent at the bustling restaurant. “This is how small-town life goes — we celebrate the little things,” Paige shared. She expressed optimism that even the famous shark sign will find a new home, restored by people who share the community’s history.

What’s Next: The Legacy Harbour Project

The prime waterfront site is now preparing for a major transformation. The upcoming Legacy Harbour Project will bring two striking 25-story residential towers, each featuring 251 units. The development will also offer marina dock access and retail spaces, aiming to breathe new life into the area.

As Paige put it, “It’s got the most gorgeous crown jewel part of the river sitting right here. To see it come back to life, especially after Hurricane Ian, is a wonderful thing.”

A Bittersweet Goodbye

For families like Kimberly Rodriguez and her children, the closure feels personal. Kimberly shared, “It’s sad. We came out here to eat one last time, and now it’s closed.” Her son Brandon added, “We used to come here a lot. It’s sad to see it go.”

While many will miss the casual charm and seafood feasts of Joe’s Crab Shack, the community is looking ahead with hope. The Legacy Harbour Project promises to reshape downtown Fort Myers, blending the area’s rich history with exciting new opportunities.

Stay tuned as we follow the transformation of this iconic spot — from nostalgic memories to a bold new future on the Fort Myers waterfront.

A new residential community is on the horizon for Immokalee, as county commissioners have approved rezoning for a 27-home subdivision along Roberts Avenue West. This marks a significant step toward revitalizing the neighborhood with thoughtfully designed, multigenerational housing.

Rezoning Approval and Project Overview

On May 13, the Collier Board of County Commissioners unanimously rezoned 4.5 acres encompassing four vacant parcels at 1215 Forrester Avenue and 1300 Roberts Avenue West. Previously zoned for single-family homes with a Wellfield Risk-Management Special-Treatment Overlay, the property now carries a Residential Planned Unit Development (RPUD) designation while maintaining the protective wellfield overlay. This zoning permits construction of:

• 26 two-story attached single-family homes (villa-style)

• 1 detached single-family home

The project, known as the Sainvilus Subdivision RPUD, is situated roughly 500 feet west of North 11th Street, bordered by Roberts Avenue West and Forrester Avenue.

Design and Community Impact

The subdivision will feature villa-style attached homes, approximately 35 feet tall and about 2,300 square feet each, with two-car garages and shared walls. These homes are specifically designed for multigenerational living, allowing families to accommodate parents or grandparents in lower units with privacy ensured through landscaping buffers.

The site currently has a single-family home on Roberts Avenue West that will be removed to make way for the new development. Surrounding the property are single-family residences and the Immokalee Pioneer Museum across Roberts Avenue West.

Plans include:

• 2.71 acres of open space (meeting the 60% open space requirement)

• New sidewalks and streetlights to enhance safety and walkability

• Main vehicle access via Forrester Avenue, plus three additional entrances off Roberts Avenue West

• A 0.82-acre stormwater management area designed to protect the environment and nearby residences

Community Feedback and Safeguards

During a December neighborhood meeting, architect William Glass and project representatives addressed residents’ concerns, including potential garage conversions into living spaces and affordability of market-rate housing. They assured that deed restrictions enforced by the homeowners association (HOA) will prevent unauthorized conversions and that compliance will be actively monitored.

While some neighbors expressed apprehension about increased density, many acknowledged the development’s potential to boost property values and provide much-needed housing options that encourage families to remain in Immokalee.

Environmental and Traffic Considerations

The development respects the wellfield overlay designed to protect the region’s potable water supply by limiting contamination and groundwater overuse. Additionally, a traffic study estimated that the subdivision would generate about 30 two-way vehicle trips during peak hours—indicating minimal impact on local traffic.

Ownership and Next Steps

The land is owned primarily by members of the Sainvilus family, with James and Francesca Sainvilus holding 80% ownership, and Jean Calixte and Eliamene Sainvilus owning the remaining portion. The approved zoning allows a density of six homes per acre, aligning with community growth plans.

With approvals in place, the project is poised to move forward, promising to bring fresh energy and family-oriented housing to Immokalee’s evolving landscape.

A bold new chapter has begun for Royal Palm Square.

Nearly three years after acquiring the 14-acre property nestled between Colonial Boulevard and Royal Palm Square Boulevard, Alessio Companies has officially launched the site’s long-anticipated transformation. With the expiration of existing leases, demolition is now underway—marking the start of what will become a walkable, mixed-use destination blending modern living with health-focused amenities.

Phase One: A Wellness-Focused Vision

Phase one of this multi-phase redevelopment will introduce:

• Approximately 300 multifamily residences

• A 130-room hotel

• 20,000 to 40,000 sq. ft. of medical office space

• 40,000 to 50,000 sq. ft. of ground-level and second-story retail

“This project is all about creating walkability,” said Justin Thibaut, CEO of LSI Companies, which is managing the leasing. “From upscale dining to fitness, it’s designed to support a healthier, more connected lifestyle.”

A central green space and event lawn will act as the heart of the community, bridging phase one to future developments.

A Community-First Approach

Alessio Companies is rethinking traditional development. Instead of launching with million-dollar townhomes, the focus has shifted to medical facilities, wellness-oriented businesses, and restaurants—responding to the needs and wants of the Fort Myers community.

“The community wants walkable access to great food, fitness, and experiences,” said Michael Alessio, company president. “We’re making that the foundation from day one.”

One of the anchors of the area, the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, will remain through at least 2033. Nearby businesses, such as The Salon Professional Academy and Omni Health Club, will continue operating until phase two begins. As part of phase one, Omni will relocate to a larger, newly designed 10,000 sq. ft. facility, doubling down on its wellness mission.

A Family Legacy in Motion

Founded by James Alessio generations ago, the company continues to be a family-run operation. Today, Michael Alessio leads the initiative, with support from both his father and daughter. In a symbolic moment, Jim Alessio, Michael’s father, helped operate demolition machinery at the site—making way for what’s to come.

“It’s a family affair,” said Michael. “We’re proud to build something lasting, together.”

What’s Next

Alessio Companies aims to secure permitting by June, with groundbreaking slated for late 2025 or early 2026. Construction on phase one is expected to take 16 to 18 months, with completion targeted for summer 2027.

“We’re bringing life back to Royal Palm,” said Alessio. “Restaurants, entertainment, walkable streets, green space—it’s about creating a place where people can live, dine, and thrive without needing to drive across town.”

Leoma Lovegrove, a vibrant and visionary impressionist-expressionist painter, left an indelible mark on Southwest Florida with her vivid, joyful works and her dedication to the arts. She passed away on April 10 at the age of 72, surrounded by love and her husband, Mike Silberg, at their home in North Fort Myers.

Diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer in 2018, Lovegrove used her personal journey to raise awareness for breast cancer and the importance of early detection. Her art became not only an outlet for expression but also a beacon of hope and advocacy.

Honoring Her Legacy: A Fund for the Arts

In her memory, the Leoma Lovegrove Foundation Fund has been established through the Collaboratory to support local arts and continue her mission of creativity and community.

“As a community foundation, we support families so they can create lasting legacies,” said Dawn Belamarich, Collaboratory President and CEO. “This is a way to honor her life, art, and contribution. We want to keep the spirit of her work alive—this is a celebration of Leoma.”

Donations can be made at: www.collaboratory.org/LeomaLovegrove

A Creative Force in Retail

Lovegrove’s artistic reach extended beyond the studio. In 2013, she partnered with Bealls Inc. to create a colorful retail line of accessories, home goods, and women’s apparel that reflected her signature Florida flair.

Matt Beall, Chairman and CEO of Bealls Florida, recalled the collaboration with admiration.

“It was bright, colorful, and fun—it made the rest of the store pop,” he said. “Leoma had an artistic spirit and a strong business sense. She was an inspiration and a phenomenal human being.”

Although the contract expired a year ago, Lovegrove had expressed interest in renewing it just months before her passing. Beall shared that he hopes to continue the conversation with her husband to potentially revive the brand.

Celebrations of Life

A Celebration of Life for Lovegrove will be held on April 28 at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Fort Myers. The event has reached capacity, but additional tributes have been planned to honor her life and legacy:

Candlelight Vigil in Matlacha
Wednesday, April 30
6:30–8:00 PM
Re/Max Sunshine, 4574 Pine Island Road, Matlacha
Guests are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and share their favorite stories during an open mic at sunset. Parking is available at Matlacha Community Park.

Art Walk Tribute in Downtown Fort Myers
Thursday, May 2
River District, Fort Myers
The River District Alliance will pay tribute to Lovegrove during its monthly Art Walk. The Leoma Lovegrove Studio on Dean Street will be open from 11 AM to 9 PM, with Art Fest festivities from 5 to 9 PM, and a special celebration of life centered at the new Pocket Park on First Street.

Fort Myers Beach may be on the verge of expanding its town boundaries as officials consider the annexation of San Carlos Island, a move that could add approximately 1,000 new residents to the town overnight.

The idea was introduced by Councilman John King during a recent town council meeting. The proposed annexation would extend from the Hurricane Pass Bridge to the Matanzas Pass Bridge, effectively bringing the entirety of San Carlos Island under Fort Myers Beach governance.

“I’d like the council to consider annexing San Carlos Island,” King said, citing the strong sense of connection many residents already feel with Fort Myers Beach.

“It would bring them into a town that they always identify with. It would give them a chance to vote on local government and possibly have people on the council,” he added.

Community Reactions Mixed

While some see the move as a logical next step for regional unity, not all residents are on board.

Rick Good, a longtime resident of San Carlos Island, voiced strong opposition to the proposal.

“It seems like a negative to me. I can’t see any reason for it,” Good said, expressing concerns about the potential for increased building restrictions and decisions made by Fort Myers Beach that might not reflect San Carlos Island values.

“We know some of the restrictions they have done on buildings, and then also, they have approved a lot of stuff that we wouldn’t have been for,” he continued.

Good also emphasized that San Carlos Island has long functioned effectively as an unincorporated area, praising local law enforcement and emergency services.

“We’ve never had any issue with police or fire. The sheriff’s great around here, so they take care of everything,” he said.

Next Steps: Town Halls and Dialogue

Councilman King stressed that annexation would not proceed without robust community input.

“I’d have a series of town halls, sit down, discuss the idea with them, hear their concerns, let them hear what I think will happen, and either we can go forward or not,” he said.

The topic is expected to be brought up for further discussion at an upcoming management and planning meeting within the next two months. In the meantime, both supporters and opponents will have the opportunity to voice their perspectives.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as Fort Myers Beach continues evaluating the potential annexation of San Carlos Island.

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) is preparing for a significant shift in terminal access as part of its ongoing terminal expansion project. Starting Wednesday at 8 p.m., travelers should expect changes that will impact how they enter and navigate the airport, particularly those heading to Concourses B, C, and D.

What’s Changing?

Key sections of the main terminal—including the area that previously served as a primary entrance to Concourses B and C—will be closed off. This closure also includes retail and dining spaces such as Nathan’s Famous and Quiznos located within that corridor.

Going forward, travelers needing to reach Concourses B and C will need to use the east atrium entrance. For those flying out of Concourse D, access will now be available only through the west atrium, located inside Door 5.

What Travelers Should Know

RSW officials are advising passengers to allow extra time for arrival and check-in, as navigation around the terminal may be less intuitive during construction.

Frequent flyer Bruce Ross, who typically parks near the now-closed section for convenience, shared his reaction:

“I think what I’ll have to do is just adapt… I’ll start parking further down and figure it out—it’s going to be ugly at first,” he said.

Another long-time traveler, Eric Payne, expressed mixed feelings.

“There’s no character here. There’s no pizzazz. It’s like a utility room with gates,” he said, but added that expansion could bring much-needed improvements to the overall experience.

Looking Ahead

While the immediate changes may cause some disruption, airport officials hope the expansion will ultimately make RSW more efficient, attractive, and traveler-friendly, comparable to top-tier international airports.

Until then, passengers are reminded to check signage, follow airport personnel guidance, and plan their arrival with these new access routes in mind.

Travel Tip:
Give yourself extra time before your flight—especially if you are unfamiliar with the updated terminal layout or traveling with children, seniors, or luggage.

For the latest updates and terminal maps, visit the official RSW Airport website or contact airport information services.