Fort Myers Approves $11.5M Downtown Redevelopment Project

Fort Myers officials approved an $11.5 million renovation of the old News-Press building and Fire Station 1 property.

“I would like to move forward with the motion as written for the purchase and sale agreement for the $11.5 million to Catalyst,” Darla Bonk, Fort Myers City Councilmember for Ward 6, said at the March 3 city council meeting.

The major project at 2442 and 2404 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. will turn two outdated buildings into a vibrant downtown center. Plans include 580 homes, a modern hotel, and office space covering 150,000 square feet. The area will feature a new grocery store, along with two parking garages to handle traffic.

The development sets aside 56 homes for working families and middle-income residents. Building could begin in 2027, with planning work starting right away.

Some locals want more discussion time. Dr. Aaron Howard asked for a 60-day extension to review other options but was denied.