Fort Myers Beach Council Approves Six-Story Pink Shell Resort Expansion Despite Local Opposition

On Feb. 3, 2025, Fort Myers Beach Town Council voted 4-0 to support Pink Shell Resort's expansion — dismissing staff recommendations and resident worries. The project includes a new 40-room hotel building across Estero Boulevard.

Moving away from typical three-story limits, this six-story building represents a significant change. The approval comes as the beach town slowly recovers from Hurricane Ian's destruction.

"We need some development on the island. You go down, there's not much happening, and we need new development happening on this island," Bill Waichullis, the Pink Shell's manager, told NBC2 News.

At the crowded council meeting, residents voiced strong concerns. Traffic problems and blocked beach views were their main worries. Robert Burns, who lives nearby, highlighted his concerns.

"We're going to see more traffic, we're going to see more noise, we're going to see more problems with the park because there will be people trying to get into the park," Burns told NBC2 News.

While some welcome the progress, others are concerned about keeping the town's character.