Fort Myers shoppers weigh in on Edison Mall redevelopment plans

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK) — The Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency is beginning to study possible redevelopment ideas for Edison Mall, a community staple since 1965.

People are already saying if changes are coming, they want their input heard. WINK News reporter Miyoshi Price talked with shoppers who had different ideas but all agreed they want to see the mall thrive again.

For many, Edison Mall is more than just a place to shop, it's part of their childhood. While some people want big upgrades, others say the history here is what makes it special.

Destiny Rodriguez grew up coming to the mall and says she hopes any changes preserve the mall's heart.

"I feel like they should leave it the mall, because it's history," Rodriguez said. "I don't feel like they should add apartments or anything to it."

She says more family activities could help bring people back. Rodriguez suggested more stores for kids and arcades.

Carlos says renovations and new businesses could make a big difference.

"More activity, for family, for the community, Fort Myers Lehigh Acres in the center," Carlos said.

The Community Redevelopment Agency approved up to $100,000 for a study looking at possible redevelopment options for the mall and surrounding property. The study will look at conceptual redevelopment ideas, possible site plans and whether air rights could allow development above existing structures while keeping retail space.

City documents say the goal is to create a framework that could enable mixed-use development and attract new investment.

"We gonna get more kid things in this mall," Rodriguez said. "Because I'm a parent who likes to come shop at the mall, we need a daycare where they can watch my kids while I shop."

The consulting team is also working with a firm that helped transform a Naples mall into a walkable mixed-use destination. No final plans have been decided as the process is still in its early stages.