Plans to transform the former Beach Theatre into an entertainment complex are moving forward, despite concerns from nearby residents about potential noise and traffic impacts.
At its Aug. 4 meeting, the Fort Myers Beach Town Council approved four special exceptions for the project, along with a parking variation, while also imposing conditions to address neighborhood concerns.
Approved Exceptions
The special exceptions will allow:
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Outdoor alcohol consumption within 500 feet of residences.
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Outdoor entertainment.
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Live entertainment.
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Outdoor seating after sunset in a Commercial Boulevard zoning district.
Council also granted a parking variation permitting fewer parking spaces than normally required. Instead of the 115 spaces mandated by code, the business will have 78 spaces, using parking at the developer’s nearby Dolphin Inn and potentially other properties.
Mayor Dan Allers was the only vote against the parking variation, citing unresolved concerns about traffic congestion and safety.
Conditions to Address Concerns
To balance development with neighborhood impact, Council set the following limits:
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Food & beverage service: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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Outdoor music: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. only, with no full bands or percussion unless a special event permit is obtained.
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Valet parking: Required Nov. 1 through Easter, Thursday–Sunday from 5 p.m. to closing.
Project Details
The redeveloped space at 6425 Estero Blvd. will feature:
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First floor: Open-air, casual restaurant and bar with a sound- and light-blocking wall, landscaping, and fencing along the property line.
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Second floor: High-end indoor steakhouse with some outdoor seating.
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Third floor: Office and storage space.
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Potential for occasional movie screenings, if feasible.
The project’s tentative names include The Boardwalk Grill for the downstairs venue and possibly The Reel Steakhouse upstairs, nodding to the building’s movie theater past.
Community Reaction
Two residents living across from the old theater voiced concerns during public comment about outdoor sound disrupting the area’s long-standing quiet and about possible traffic issues.
The Beach Theatre, built in 1999, was purchased in May 2022 by Steve Boge as part of a $19 million deal that also included Gulfview Manor.
