Category: SWFL Update

Southwest Florida’s alt-rock quintet, Shy Blossom, is set to open for ’90s rock fusion legends Sister Hazel on March 13 at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon in Fort Myers.

Formed by vocalist and guitarist Adriana McDonald, Shy Blossom blends ’90s influences with a modern twist, drawing inspiration from artists like Radiohead, Fiona Apple, PJ Harvey, Mitski, and Chappell Roan. The band also features Julie Copithorn on drums, Preston Lich on bass, and Abel Ramirez on lead guitar and backing vocals.

Their debut album, “Bloom,” released last year, showcases catchy, introspective tracks such as “The Fool,” “Don’t Call Me,” and “Underneath.” Notably, the album includes contributions from former Pearl Jam drummer David Abbruzzese.

Opening for Sister Hazel, known for their hit “All for You,” is a significant milestone for Shy Blossom. Reflecting on the opportunity, McDonald expressed gratitude, stating, “I feel like it’s an incredible opportunity. It came out of nowhere. It kind of feels meant to be. I’m just really grateful to be opening for them and that they gave us a chance to let us play.”

Tickets for the March 13 show are available here. Doors open at 7 p.m., with music starting at 8 p.m.

For more information on Shy Blossom and their upcoming projects, visit their official website.

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Southwest Florida continues to strengthen its position as a competitive office market, ranking fifth among the country’s mid-sized office markets in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to a recent study by Commercial Cafe, a leading commercial real estate data provider.

The report examined the 100 largest office markets in the U.S., evaluating their performance in critical areas such as asking rents, vacancy rates, market expansion, and loan maturities. The findings highlight Southwest Florida’s resilience and growth as the region steps into 2025.

A Strong Performance in Key Metrics

One of the standout factors in Southwest Florida’s ranking was its low office vacancy rate. At 9.8%, the region recorded the second-lowest vacancy rate among mid-sized markets with less than 100 million square feet of office space. This represents a slight improvement from the 10.2% vacancy rate recorded in Q3 2024, reflecting a growing demand for office space in the area.

In addition to maintaining a strong occupancy rate, Southwest Florida also ranked among the top 20 markets for office expansion. The report analyzed both the amount of new office space added in the fourth quarter and its share of total office inventory. This indicates steady growth and continued investment in the region’s office sector.

How Southwest Florida Compares to Other Mid-Sized Markets

Southwest Florida’s impressive ranking places it alongside some of the most competitive office markets in the country. The top-performing mid-sized office markets in Q4 2024 were:

1. Miami, Florida
2. Inland Empire, California
3. Richmond, Virginia
4. Central Valley, California
5. Southwest Florida

A Promising Outlook for 2025

With strong fundamentals, low vacancy rates, and continued market expansion, Southwest Florida’s office market is positioned for a promising year ahead. As businesses seek stable and growing markets for office space, the region remains an attractive option for investors and companies looking to establish or expand their presence.

The findings from Commercial Cafe’s report reinforce Southwest Florida’s economic resilience and potential for long-term growth, making it one of the standout office markets to watch in 2025.

Construction has officially begun on Aura at Metropolitan Naples, a stunning 15-story high-rise that is set to redefine luxury living in downtown Naples.

Exclusive Residences with Spectacular Views

Aura will feature a curated collection of 56 luxury residences, offering layouts from two-bedroom-plus-den to expansive four-bedroom configurations. With living spaces ranging from 1,890 to 6,335 square feet, residents can enjoy a blend of sophistication and functionality.

Prices start at $2 million and exceed $7 million, ensuring each residence offers an unparalleled standard of living.

Elevated Amenities to Redefine Luxury

Aura will boast the highest pool in downtown Naples, offering breathtaking views of the cityscape. Residents will also enjoy an elevated fitness center and yoga studio, overlooking the vibrant intersection of Fifth Avenue South and Davis Boulevard.

The fifth floor will feature an array of exclusive amenities, including:

• Indoor and outdoor residents’ lounges
• An overnight guest suite
• A business center and conference room
• An outdoor kitchen and grilling area, perfect for entertaining

Visionary Developers

Development Partners International LLC, led by Naples veterans Fred Pezeshkan and Jerry Starkey, is spearheading the development of Aura and the broader Metropolitan Naples project. With a deep understanding of the local community and a legacy of successful developments, Pezeshkan and Starkey aim to bring new energy and elegance to the downtown Naples area.

Anticipation Builds

While a completion date has not yet been announced, excitement is already growing around this transformative project. Aura promises to combine architectural beauty, luxurious amenities, and a prime location to create an unmatched living experience in Naples.

Stay tuned for updates as construction progresses on this remarkable addition to the Naples skyline.

Southwest Florida’s beloved eagle pair, M15 and F23, have welcomed two new eaglets, delighting fans of the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam. The hatching of E24 and E25 marks another milestone in the 13th season of this globally renowned live stream.

Hatchling Highlights

• Egg 1: Laid on Nov. 8 at 2:38 p.m., hatched as E24 on Dec. 14 at 4:01 p.m.
• Egg 2: Laid on Nov. 11 at 6:15 p.m., hatched as E25 on Dec. 17 at 5:48 a.m.

Viewers witnessed the magical moments unfold via the multi-camera setup streaming live from the nest on the Pritchett property in North Fort Myers. With over 225 million views worldwide since its inception, the Eagle Cam continues to captivate audiences.

On Dec. 16, a close-up of the second egg revealed signs of movement as the eaglet began to break through the shell. The process wasn’t immediate—like in cartoons—but a gradual effort. By the morning of Dec. 17, E25 emerged, still wet and partially inside the cracked shell, exhausted but alive.

A Season of Growth

This is the second season for M15 and F23 as a pair. Last year, only one egg hatched successfully, while the second was damaged before hatching. The new eaglets bring a fresh challenge as the pair now raises two eaglets together for the first time.

Southwest Florida Eagle Cam founder Ginnie Pritchett-McSpadden expressed excitement and relief:

“Last year, we only had one hatch. I was a little nervous this time, but it’s great to see them both hatch successfully. Watching them eat, bob their heads, and gain strength is such a treat—it’s cuteness overload!”

The Legacy of M15 and Harriet

M15 is no stranger to the spotlight. He was the mate of the original nest matriarch, Harriet, for eight years. After Harriet’s disappearance in 2023, M15 bonded with F23, continuing the legacy of the nest first established by Ozzie and Harriet in 2006. The Eagle Cam has documented their lives, making them icons of conservation awareness.

What’s Next for E24 and E25?

The eaglets will experience rapid growth in the coming weeks, undergoing a remarkable transformation:

• First 30 Days: Significant growth in height and weight.
• Next 30 Days: Development of feathers to replace their downy coating.
• Final 30 Days: Practice branching and wing exercises in preparation for fledging.

Within six weeks, the eaglets will nearly match the size of their parents, and by early spring, they are expected to fledge from the nest.

Immersive Eagle Viewing

Fans can follow the eaglets’ journey on the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam, which provides a unique, real-time look into their daily lives. The setup includes:

• Camera 1: Positioned 7 feet above the nest with night vision.
• Camera 2: Captures side views at nest level.
• Camera 3: A 360-degree live-streaming camera offering an interactive experience.
• Camera 4: Focuses on the pond and surrounding pasture.

For updates and to watch the action unfold, visit the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam. The season promises to be an exciting chapter in the life of these majestic birds!

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has announced updates on the ongoing Sanibel Causeway reconstruction project. Traffic has been shifted to the permanent lanes, and the causeway islands surrounding the temporary roadway remain an active work zone, closed to public access both on land and from the water. Limited work activities are planned over the holidays, with no additional lane closures currently scheduled.

Scheduled Work Activities

The following updates detail current and upcoming work. Please note that unforeseen underground conditions and weather may affect the schedule.

East of the Toll Plaza

• Westbound Lane Openings:
  Two westbound lanes on McGregor Boulevard were scheduled to open on December 20. The underground pipe crossing reconstruction is complete, and paving was set to be finished last week. Traffic on McGregor Boulevard is shifted to the south side of the road, approximately ½ mile from Shell Point Boulevard to west of Port Comfort Road. Westbound traffic heading to Port Comfort should proceed straight before turning right.
• Eastbound Lane Closure:
  The outside eastbound travel lane of McGregor remains closed from the toll plaza to approximately ¾ mile east. Additionally, the shoulder is fully closed. Crews were scheduled to pave the area last week, with stabilization of the shoulder planned for early 2025.
• Temporary Daytime Flagging:
  Outside of the holiday period, motorists should expect temporary daytime flagging on McGregor Boulevard (both eastbound and westbound) from Shell Point to Punta Rassa Road for equipment and material movement.

West of the Toll Plaza

• Barrier Wall Removal:
  Crews will begin removing the barrier wall along the Causeway Islands in preparation for final asphalt placement. The Causeway Islands Park remains closed to the public.
• Pedestrian Traffic Delineation:
  Lee County is installing a post-and-rope system to guide pedestrian traffic during the upcoming reconstruction of recreational facilities on the Causeway Islands.
• Equipment Movement:
  Motorists should expect occasional traffic stops at the staging area entrance as equipment crosses the road with materials. The westbound merge point is located west of the toll plaza, and drivers are reminded to use caution and adhere to the 20 mph speed limit.
• Off-Island U-Turn Construction:
  Crews are continuing work under Span A to complete the off-island U-turn.

Additional Reminders

• Many oversized vehicles are using the causeway to support island recovery efforts, so travel times may be slower than usual.
• Bicyclists are encouraged to consider alternative transportation options, and pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway.
• Motorists should strictly observe the 20 mph speed limit throughout the work zone for safety.

For detailed project information and updates, visit FDOT’s Sanibel Causeway project page.

While Southwest Florida is renowned as a sunny winter escape, the holiday season brings a touch of magic with sparkling festivities. Here’s your guide to enjoying the holiday cheer!

Edison and Ford Winter Estates: Holiday Nights

Fort Myers
️ Through Jan. 5, 2025

Experience a dazzling wonderland at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Stroll along the Children’s Holiday Tree Trail, decorated with handmade ornaments, and enjoy nightly guided tours. Don’t miss select evenings featuring carolers and a special visit from Santa.

Holiday House Christmas Stroll

Downtown Fort Myers
️ Through Dec. 31

Since 1956, the Fort Myers Woman’s Community Club has been transforming historic homes into holiday showcases. This year’s Christmas Stroll along First Street features festive store window displays centered around the theme, “Christmas Stories Through the Eyes of a Child.”

Bonita Springs Holiday Stroll

Downtown Bonita Springs
️ Throughout December

Enjoy the sparkle of Riverside Park as it comes alive each evening from dusk to 9 p.m. Stroll through the colorful lights, snap holiday-themed selfies, and soak in the festive atmosphere.

Holiday Lights at Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

Fort Myers
️ Select dates through Dec. 29

Take a magical walk along a glowing trail through the Calusa Nature Center. Afterwards, relax by a crackling fire, roast marshmallows, and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate.

Holiday Boat-A-Long

Cape Coral
️ Dec. 21

Catch the festive Holiday Boat-A-Long Parade as it lights up Bimini Basin. Following the parade, enjoy a free outdoor screening of “Polar Express,” live entertainment, food trucks, crafts, and a visit from Santa.

Ring in the New Year

️ Dec. 31

Celebrate the start of 2025 with family-friendly events in Cape Coral, the Downtown Fort Myers Historic River District, and Fort Myers Beach.

Get ready to embrace the holidays with sunshine, sparkle, and unforgettable memories in Southwest Florida!

Click here for more info

Electric vehicle (EV) adoption continues to accelerate in Southwest Florida, with Collier and Lee counties experiencing a 30% increase in EV registrations in 2024, according to data from EV research group IHS Markit.

Growth in EV Registrations

• Lee County: Registrations for fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles climbed from 7,095 in 2023 to 9,245 in 2024.
• Collier County: Registrations increased from 5,956 in 2023 to 7,742 in 2024.

Statewide EV Trends

Across Florida, the momentum is reflected in nearly 300,000 EV registrations, including 244,000 fully battery electric vehicles. This marks a 33% year-over-year increase in EV adoption.

Factors Driving the Growth

The significant rise in EV registrations is attributed to:

• Increased availability of EV models from automakers.
• Enhanced charging infrastructure throughout the state.
• Growing consumer interest in sustainable transportation options.

As EV adoption expands, Southwest Florida is solidifying its position as a leader in the shift to cleaner, more energy-efficient transportation.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded a $19.3 million Community Change Grant to Lee County and the Collaboratory over a three-year period. This transformative funding aims to strengthen disadvantaged communities by addressing environmental challenges and improving disaster preparedness.

Building Resilient Communities

The grant will support initiatives to increase community resilience, reduce pollution, and enhance the capacity of local organizations to serve residents during emergencies, such as hurricanes. Central to this effort is the creation of a network of community resilience hubs, designed to provide both everyday resources and critical support during disasters.

What Are Resilience Hubs?

Resilience hubs are community spaces that:

• Provide supplies and social services for daily needs.
• Transition into disaster response centers offering vital information, emergency support, and health supplies during crises.

Four organizations will serve as the foundation for this network:

1. The Collaboratory
2. Franklin Park Elementary School
3. IMAG History & Science Center
4. Pine Manor Community Center

Key Objectives of the Project

1. Strengthening Local Organizations:
   • Equip resilience hubs with supplies and resources.
   • Build capacity for local groups offering emergency services.
2. Emergency Preparedness Plans:
   • Help communities develop robust emergency plans.
   • Enhance coordination for an all-of-community response during severe events.
3. Stormwater and Infrastructure Improvements:
   • Focus on upgrades along Ten Mile Canal to improve flood management and reduce pollution.
4. Workforce Development:
   • Launch programs to train workers in constructing energy-efficient and resilient homes, supporting both local employment and sustainable housing.

A Collaborative Effort for Lasting Impact

This project is a joint effort between Lee County, Collaboratory, and several community partners, leveraging resources to improve emergency response and long-term environmental resilience. By combining infrastructure improvements, workforce training, and community engagement, the initiative aims to create a safer, more sustainable future for residents.

For more information, visit the Collaboratory’s website or Lee County’s emergency management resources.

The iconic Vicky Bakery, known for its traditional Cuban pastries and modern menu offerings, has opened its 26th location at 4429 Cleveland Ave. in El Dorado Plaza, Fort Myers. This expansion marks the bakery’s continued growth across Florida, introducing Southwest Florida residents to its beloved Cuban flavors.

A Family Legacy Rooted in Cuban Tradition

The Vicky Bakery story began in 1972 when Antonio and Gelasia Cao, Cuban immigrants, purchased a small bakery in Hialeah near Miami. Over the years, the Cao family transformed it into a household name synonymous with Cuban cuisine. Today, their brand spans 26 locations, with more on the way, including a Cape Coral location set to open next year.

Andretti Tomeu, godson of Managing Partner Amy Cao, manages the Fort Myers location alongside his girlfriend, Milly Telle. Tomeu emphasized the importance of expanding to Southwest Florida, where many Miami-area residents have relocated over the years.

“We chose Southwest Florida because so many people over the past 10, 15 years have moved out this way,” Tomeu said.

What to Expect at Vicky Bakery Fort Myers

Vicky Bakery is celebrated for its Cuban-style baked goods and has expanded its menu to include breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.
Menu Highlights:

• Pastries and Desserts: Guava and cheese pastelitos, croquetas, cookies, and more.
• Hot Plates: Pork, beef, and chicken entrees, ranging from $10 to $14.
• Sandwiches: Cuban classics and other flavorful options.

“It’s traditional Cuban recipes modernized over the years,” Tomeu said. “There’s all the Cuban favorites that everybody loves.”

A Warm Welcome from the Community

The Fort Myers location had a soft launch, quickly gaining attention, including a social media boost from the Fort Myers Police Department. An official grand opening is planned for mid-January to celebrate the bakery’s success.

The new bakery operates with 25 employees, but Tomeu anticipates hiring more soon due to the strong community response.

Location and Hours

• Address: 4429 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901 (El Dorado Plaza)
• Hours:
  • Monday–Saturday: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Sunday: 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A Growing Presence in Southwest Florida

The Fort Myers bakery follows the recent opening of a location in Ave Maria, Collier County, and precedes the Cape Coral location, scheduled to open in about a year at 602 Del Prado Blvd.

A Sweet Recommendation

When asked about his favorite menu item, Tomeu shared:

“If I could only eat one more pastry for the rest of my life, it’s the Guava and cheese. It’s something about the salty and sweet that does it for me.”

With its rich heritage and modern approach, Vicky Bakery is set to become a staple for Cuban cuisine lovers in Fort Myers. Don’t miss out on this delicious addition to the local dining scene!

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has provided an update on the ongoing reconstruction of the Sanibel Causeway. Traffic has been shifted to permanent lanes, while the surrounding causeway islands remain an active work zone closed to public access, including water access.

Key Updates and Scheduled Activities

East from Toll Plaza

1. Traffic Shift on McGregor Boulevard
   • Both directions of traffic have shifted to the south side of McGregor Boulevard from Shell Point Boulevard to Port Comfort Road.
   • Westbound traffic to Port Comfort may continue straight, turning right as needed.
   • This shift allows contractors to reconstruct the underground pipe crossing on the north side.
   • McGregor will remain one lane in each direction through early 2025.
2. Shoulder Closures and Shoreline Reinforcement
   • The eastbound shoulder (beach side) of McGregor is closed. Crews are completing sand placement and replacing the barrier wall with barrels.
   • Both eastbound lanes are expected to reopen by the end of the year.
3. Temporary Lane Closures
   • Expect daytime lane closures (both eastbound and westbound) between Shell Point and Punta Rassa Road as crews move equipment and materials.

West from Toll Plaza

1. Barrier Wall Removal
   • Crews are removing the barrier wall along the Causeway Islands to prepare for final asphalt paving. The Causeway Islands Park remains closed.
2. Pedestrian Delineation
   • Lee County is installing a post-and-rope system to delineate pedestrian areas during the reconstruction of recreational facilities.
3. Construction Activity
   • Crews are working on:
     • Armor stone placement near the south side of the toll plaza.
     • Sod installation for roadway stabilization.
     • Earth grading and debris removal.
   • Construction equipment will periodically enter and exit travel lanes, with interruptions minimized during peak hours.
4. Westbound Merge and Speed Limits
   • The westbound merge location is west of the toll plaza.
   • Motorists must obey the 20 mph speed limit. Construction vehicles are active near the staging area.
5. U-turn Under Span A
   • Work continues on the off-island U-turn under Span A.

Safety and Travel Advisories

• Oversized Vehicles: Many large vehicles are crossing to support island recovery efforts. Expect slower travel times.
• Bicyclists and Pedestrians: Bicyclists are advised to use alternative transportation, and pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway.
• Speed Limit: Motorists must obey the posted 20 mph speed limit throughout the work zone.

Project Information

For additional details about the project, visit the official site:
www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway

Patience and caution are appreciated as crews work diligently to complete this important reconstruction.