Debate reignites as Outrigger Resort on Fort Myers Beach returns for discussion

FORT MYERS, Fla. —

A proposed mixed-use resort project on the Outrigger Beach Resort Property on Fort Myers Beach is under review again, drawing concerns from residents about its size and potential effects on traffic and noise in a residential area.

Residents previously packed the town hall last month, sharing hours of public comments expressing frustrations about the project. Many worried the development was too large for the island and would bring more traffic and noise to the area.

The local planning agency is reviewing the massive proposal, which developers hope will transform the site into a mixed-use destination with 150 hotel rooms, 46 residential units, over 46,000 square feet of commercial space, and 340 parking spaces.

Developers are also requesting multiple approvals and exceptions, including changes to the comprehensive plan, future land use map, and zoning rules. They aim to create a new "Outrigger Resort Mixed-Use" category specifically for this project.

The difference now is that this project has become more formalized since the last meeting in April, with specific details on density, parking, and land use now on the table.

Public comment is open again today, with the meeting starting at 9 a.m. and expected to continue into the afternoon, with many residents against the project arriving at the town hall.

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