Update 11/19/2024

New Mixed-Use Development in Estero Begins Construction on Phase 1

A new residential and commercial entertainment development in Estero is set to transform the northwest corner of Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) and Coconut Road. South Carolina-based developer Woodfield, represented in Florida by Ross Abramson, received unanimous approval on Tuesday from the Village of Estero’s Planning, Zoning, and Design Board to move forward with Phase 1 of the project.

Phase 1 will include all necessary infrastructure, a two-lane roundabout, two multi-family buildings, parking garages, and public amenities designed to create a walkable, community-focused environment. The approved plans feature 296 residential units, 21,000 square feet of retail space, 14,000 square feet of dining options, a dog park, a splash pad, a large open green space, and an amphitheater.

The 46-acre development is being compared to Naples’ Mercato, with plans for 596 residential units, 82,000 square feet of retail and dining, a hotel, public entertainment areas, office space, and additional amenities. “Some of us call it like a little mini-Mercato,” said Mary Gibbs, Estero’s director of community development, highlighting the vertical mixed-use layout and vibrant community offerings.

Traffic Solutions: Roundabout Implementation
To address traffic concerns, Woodfield will construct a two-lane roundabout at Coconut Road and Walden Center Drive, as required by zoning approval from the Village Council in 2023. The roundabout is designed to accommodate both northbound and southbound traffic, offering a solution to congestion in this growing area.

“Roundabouts help slow people down,” said transportation engineer Elizabeth Suárez, who is collaborating with Woodfield. “This is a residential area, and we want drivers to treat it that way.”

While roundabouts are often smaller and more efficient than traditional traffic circles, some concerns remain about their impact. “I think it’s a great project and a real plus for the village,” said board member Anthony Gargano. “But we have a responsibility to ensure traffic impacts don’t diminish residents’ quality of life.”

What’s Next
Phase 2 will include a central park, additional commercial space, the public component of Restaurant Row, and the creation of Rambla Street, further enhancing the mixed-use vision. With its combination of residential, retail, dining, and public spaces, this development is poised to become a hub for entertainment and community life in Estero.

Stay tuned as this exciting project takes shape, bringing new opportunities and challenges to this dynamic Southwest Florida village.

 

Update 2/14/2024

Phase 1 Development Plans Unveiled for Woodfield Estero

We’re thrilled to share the latest developments on Phase 1 of our project at Woodfield Estero! The applicant recently presented their proposed application for a development order, outlining a vision for a vibrant community set on 46+ acres at the prime location of the northwest corner of US 41 and Coconut Road, directly across from the renowned Coconut Point Mall.

Phase 1 will mark the beginning of a transformative journey, focusing on essential infrastructure such as stormwater retention, roadways, utilities, and lush perimeter landscape buffers along key areas including the US-41 frontage. Plans also include the integration of a traffic signal or roundabout at the intersection of Coconut Road and Walden Center Drive, ensuring smooth accessibility for residents and visitors alike.

This phase is set to introduce 296 modern apartments and 25,000 square feet of commercial spaces, all designed in the timeless elegance of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. The community’s overall blueprint is equally impressive, encompassing 596 dwelling units, 82,000 square feet of retail and dining options, a 260-room hotel, civic spaces totaling 6,000 square feet, and 42,000 square feet of general and medical office spaces.

Building aesthetics will feature a harmonious blend of two-, three-, and four-story structures adorned in shades of taupe and linen, complemented by dark bronze accents. With a maximum height of 70 feet (excluding architectural features), the design ensures a balanced skyline. Notably, the two-story clubhouse will boast a picturesque waterfront view, enhancing the community’s appeal.

Parking solutions have been thoughtfully integrated to minimize visual impact, with most spaces cleverly concealed from public view. Enhanced landscape planning further enriches the community’s ambiance, promising residents a serene and verdant environment to call home.

Stay tuned as we embark on this remarkable journey, shaping Woodfield Estero into a premier destination where luxury living meets unparalleled convenience.

 

Update 8/31/2022

New Development in Estero: Luxury Apartments and Retail Coming Soon

In a significant move, developers have acquired 45.6 acres in Estero, FL, with plans to build luxury apartments and retail spaces on the site. Woodfield Development, a South Carolina-based developer renowned for its luxury apartment projects, and ELV Associates, a Boston real estate investment firm, have jointly purchased the site for $32.6 million. This prime location is situated directly across from Coconut Point Mall.

Ross Abramson, who heads multifamily development for Woodfield in South Florida, revealed that the project will feature high-end luxury apartments. Additionally, the retail component is being thoughtfully curated to offer a vibrant and enjoyable shopping, dining, and entertainment experience tailored to Estero’s expanding population. Abramson stated, “We are currently interviewing potential retail tenants to curate an exciting and fun-filled shopping, dining, and entertainment experience, targeted directly at Estero’s growing population.”

The developers aim to break ground on the project within the next 24 months.

Originally, the property was owned by Lee Health, which consolidated the parcels over three years, investing $18.5 million in the process. This strategic location is set to become a bustling hub for both residents and visitors.

Woodfield Development boasts a portfolio of impressive properties spanning from Washington, D.C., to Florida, Texas, and Tennessee. Locally, Woodfield developed Ridley at Waterset in Apollo Beach, just south of Tampa. ELV Associates, with a strong presence in New England, the Mid-Atlantic, and the Southeast, has developed or acquired more than 11 million square feet of property, valued at $2.7 billion since 1990.

This new development promises to bring a fresh and dynamic living and retail environment to Estero, enhancing the community’s appeal and supporting its growth.