City of Palms Park's demolition in Fort Myers begins

Demolition has started at City of Palms Park in Fort Myers, kicking off a six-month project to clear the site of the former Red Sox training facility, which has been vacant for years.

Wilbur C. Smith, former Fort Myers mayor, shared his thoughts on the decision to tear down the stadium.

"It wasn't a surprise to me. I've been following what was going on, and I could see that there was no chance to get the team there, so I thought it was best deterrent to demolish the stadium," Smith said.

Smith, who was instrumental in bringing City of Palms Park to the Gulf Coast, reflected on the community's reaction when the Red Sox first arrived.

"Well, when we first announced that we were talking to the Red Sox about coming here, nobody believed that it was possible because the Red Sox were such a huge franchise. And as time went on, it became more and more and more positive. The community got really excited," Smith said.

The facility, built 32 years ago, was last used in 2022.

Marc Million, a Fort Myers resident, commented on the park's inactivity over the years.

"I've seen them put it up and I've seen it sit here. And I haven't really seen them do much with it," Million said.

Construction crews are now clearing the site, removing utilities, hazardous materials, debris, and leveling the land. Broken palms, concrete pilings, pipes, and excavators are visible as the demolition progresses.

The City of Fort Myers has not yet finalized plans for the site’s future use.