Oakes Farms proposes major entertainment complex at former Bonita Springs dog track

BONITA SPRINGS, Fla. (WINK)— New plans could transform the former dog track site in Bonita Springs into a large entertainment destination.

The project, called "Oakes Landing," would bring entertainment, dining, retail and recreation areas to the site on Bonita Beach Road along Old U.S. 41. City records show that Oakes Farms, the company behind Seed to Table, submitted the proposal to the city of Bonita Springs.

The approximately 12-acre site would include a 100,116-square-foot building with bars, restaurants, a stage, pools, a playground and other recreational amenities, according to the staff report.

The site currently includes a 32,616-square-foot facility that houses a card room, simulcasting and a restaurant, along with an indoor and outdoor sports challenge facility.

As part of the application, Oakes Farms is also requesting a deviation to allow parking that is 43% above the minimum required number of spaces, well beyond the 15% limit typically allowed along the Bonita Beach Road Corridor.

The applicant says the large-scale venue, which would host concerts, special events and family recreation, would need the extra parking to handle peak-hour demand and keep operations running smoothly.

City planning staff reviewed the request and recommended approval of the project, agreeing that the unique nature of the development justifies the additional parking.

Staff did add a condition that if the extra parking spaces are found to be excessive, they must be converted to open space or landscaping.

The proposal is expected to go before the Bonita Springs City Council for final approval.