Sanibel Island is witnessing a significant milestone – the groundbreaking of the Shalimar Beach Resort! This marks the first resort project to begin construction on the island in years, symbolizing hope and progress after the devastation of Hurricane Ian 18 months ago.
A Family Legacy Reborn
The ceremony was a heartwarming occasion for owner Sean Niesel. He expressed his gratitude to his grandmother, acknowledging her unwavering support. The Niesel family purchased Shalimar in 2005 and envisioned transforming it into a condo complex. However, the Great Recession intervened, and their love for the resort deepened, leading them to preserve its legacy.
Hurricane Ian, though destructive, ignited a renewed purpose in Sean. He was determined to rebuild Shalimar and continue the family tradition.
Pioneering a New Era
The vacant lot where Shalimar once stood will be buzzing with activity for the next 18 months. The new resort will boast a smaller footprint (33 rooms) due to updated federal guidelines. The design, crafted by Joyce Owens Architects, prioritizes aesthetics while adhering to strict building codes.
Challenges and Collaboration
Being the first mover comes with its share of obstacles. Sean highlighted the challenges of navigating new city codes implemented due to the island’s long hiatus from resort construction. However, Sanibel Mayor Richard Johnson emphasized the importance of collaboration. He commended the Shalimar team for their spirit and expressed optimism for the island’s complete recovery.
Stevens Construction, led by Mark Stevens and Tom Porter, will spearhead this groundbreaking project. They’ll be driving hundreds of pilons into the ground, utilizing thousands of concrete blocks, and employing a workforce of around 50 at peak construction. Strategic planning will be crucial for managing logistics, particularly considering the time-sensitive nature of concrete.
Financing for this roughly $14 million project was secured with the help of Sanibel Captiva Community Bank.
Looking Forward
Excitement filled the air as Sean expressed his eagerness to get started. The hard work and dedication have finally paid off, and the wait for the finished product is bittersweet.
Estimated completion aligns with the 2025-26 tourist season, with 2026 marking the first year of welcoming guests. Larry and Linda Engen, loyal vacationers at Shalimar for 35 years, have already declared themselves the resort’s first official guests. Their sentiment perfectly captures the essence of this momentous occasion – Shalimar Beach Resort is truly “home” for many.
