Estero residents weigh in on U.S. 41 development plan at village meeting

ESTERO, Fla. — A significant portion of land along U.S. 41 in Estero is potentially on the move, and the community is getting a first look at what the future might hold.

Neighbors gathered at Estero Village Hall to share their thoughts on the proposed changes on Wednesday.

Some residents expressed excitement about the potential growth, while others voiced concerns about increased traffic.

The area under consideration spans about 1,000 acres from Estero Parkway to Williams Road. Planners are proposing a mixed-use development that includes residential, retail, entertainment, and green spaces. Changes are already underway, and the feedback from neighbors will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the area.

"Estero is always called the village with the vision and citizen input has always been very important in Estero," said Mary Gibbs, Community Development Director for the Village of Estero.

"That's our vision. Is to have good planning for the future environmental cognizance and then manage growth," she added.

Allan Bowditch of Engage Estero acknowledged the mixed feelings about the development.

"When you do have development like we have here of course it even though people are rather upset that they like to see things stay as they are, there is a silver lining to to these developments," said Bowditch.

After the meeting, consultants will review the feedback and develop a master plan to present to the council. They aim to finalize the plan by May.