Estero neighbors push back on plans for Coconut Point apartment complex

ESTERO - Plans are in motion to replace the Regal Movie Theatre at Coconut Point with a new apartment complex, but not everyone is on board.

At a meeting in Estero, residents voiced concerns about the proposed development's size, potential population, and parking issues.

The theater has been vacant since November 2022, and Simon Property Group is eager to transform the space. On Tuesday night, they presented their latest plans at the Village of Estero workshop.

Cheryl Cook, who lives nearby, said, "A lot of us that live at the residences are excited about something going behind the theater." However, she feels the current proposal is too much for the area. "It looks like it's just too much for that space and doesn't look anything like the residences," said Cook.

The proposed complex would feature 365 units, stand five stories tall, and include parking and green space. However, both council members and neighbors are concerned about the parking plan.

"There may be some old guys like James and I, we don't want to walk 700 feet," said a resident. Cook added, "Having underground parking is a big thing to me and I think most older people would agree."

Cook believes the plan needs adjustments, saying, "I would like to see them scale down the number of units by a lot. It's way too many people and too many cars for the area that they're talking about."

No decisions were made at the meeting, but Simon Property Group plans to revisit their proposal.