Collier County approves Corkscrew Grove East Village project

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. (WINK) — Collier County commissioners have unanimously approved a major development that will bring more than 4,500 homes to eastern Collier County, but not without hours of passionate debate. 

Corkscrew Grove East Village will transform more than 1,400 acres of former citrus land into a large mixed-use community with housing, commercial space, and infrastructure. It is located near the intersection of State Road 82 and Corkscrew Road.

During public comment, dozens of speakers urged leaders to reject the project, raising concerns about wildlife habitat, traffic, water resources, and long-term growth. 

Several pointed to the area’s role as critical Florida panther habitat, warning that adding thousands of homes and vehicles could further threaten an already endangered species. 

Others questioned whether the project would truly deliver affordable housing or instead accelerate sprawl and infrastructure costs.

Despite that opposition, county leaders and the developer argued the project meets all requirements under the Rural Lands Stewardship program, a system designed to concentrate development while preserving environmentally sensitive land elsewhere. 

Supporters say it could bring jobs, housing, and services closer to eastern Collier, reducing long commutes and supporting economic growth.

I also spoke with a homeowner just minutes away on the Lee County side, highlighting how this project could impact people across county lines. 

With both agenda items approved unanimously, Corkscrew Grove East Village now moves forward to the next phase, including environmental permitting and long-term infrastructure planning, while concerns from neighbors and environmental groups are expected to follow the project through that process.