Access 26 breaks ground on Fort Myers Beach

FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. (WINK) — A long-awaited project aimed at bringing new dining, shopping and beach access to Fort Myers Beach is officially moving forward.

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Construction began Monday on the Access 26 Family Food Truck Park, a development planned for Estero Boulevard across from Fort Myers Beach Town Hall.

What is now an empty lot will soon become a bustling destination featuring food trucks, a restaurant, retail space and direct beach access.

The groundbreaking marks a major milestone for a project that has sparked both excitement and controversy over the past year.

Developers envision five food trucks surrounding a two-story central building that will serve as the heart of the property.

Plans include:

Five food truck spaces
A restaurant and bar
Retail shops
Public restrooms
Office space on the second floor
Outdoor showers
Beach access
A 45-space parking lot

The property has sat vacant since Hurricane Charley damaged the area in 2005. In April 2025, the Fort Myers Beach Town Council unanimously approved the project.

Supporters say the development represents another step forward in the island’s recovery from Hurricane Ian and could provide opportunities for local businesses still rebuilding after the storm.

“We thought it would be a good way to, after the storm, to keep some of these local mom-and-pop restaurants that no longer had a home,” Access 26 owner Dan Myers said. “Try and give them a place to go.”

While town leaders approved the project, not everyone is celebrating.

Some nearby residents have expressed concerns about increased traffic, noise and the continued commercialization of the area. Two separate lawsuits were filed to stop the development.

As part of the approval process, several restrictions were added to address those concerns.

The park will be permitted to operate until 10 p.m. during the summer and 9 p.m. during the rest of the year.

Live music will be limited to three days per week for no more than four hours at a time. Performances will be restricted to small acts, such as solo musicians or duos, with no drums or bass instruments allowed.

Developers say the goal is to create a laid-back atmosphere rather than a loud entertainment venue.

From vacant lot to beach destination; Access 26 breaks ground on Fort Myers Beach

The owners acknowledge some neighbors remain skeptical but insist the project will be less intrusive than critics fear.

They say they are committed to proving they can be good neighbors while creating a new gathering place for residents and visitors alike.

The owners are also accepting interest from food truck operators who may want to join the park. Final decisions on vendors will be made closer to the park’s grand opening.

If completed as planned, Access 26 could transform a long-vacant property into one of Fort Myers Beach’s newest dining and entertainment destinations.