Elevate SWFL, Bonita Springs' 20 acre sports and wellness destination by 2030

BONITA SPRINGS, Fla. (WINK)—A $140 million sports and wellness development is underway in Bonita Springs, with founders hoping to create a community gathering space through athletics and connection.

Elevate Southwest Florida is seven weeks into a three-phase project that will span nearly 20 acres. The development is being built at the old dog track, where the organization has partnered to activate sports leagues.

"I played volleyball in college and moved down here knowing absolutely no one," said Addy Mcaleer, a former volleyball player. "So it was kind of daunting to try to find a volleyball community, and finding Elevate has been like such a blessing for me to make some new friends and get to play the sport I love."

Beach volleyball leagues are just the beginning of what founders envision for the destination. The final vision includes indoor and outdoor sports facilities, a wellness center with recovery amenities, a food park and more.

"Elevate Southwest Florida is one of our missing third places in our community," said Kristi Kandel, co-founder.

Kandel, who doubles as a real estate developer, said the project addresses barriers that might prevent people from connecting with their community. "What are all the reasons that would stop you from coming out and getting to know people in your community?" Kandel said. "Whether it's dog care, child care, or just maybe an elderly parent or whatnot, you can come together here and just meet in one spot."

Phase one focuses on outdoor sports like beach volleyball and pickleball. "We've got pickleball drop-ins in tournaments," Kandel said. "We've got beach volleyball drop-ins in tournaments. Basketball. Soon we'll have some grass sports, such as soccer and kickball."

Phase two calls for an indoor sports complex and wellness building with fitness studios, recovery spaces and athletic training. The final phase would bring the entire campus together with walking trails, a food park, a dog park and other social spaces.

The development will likely be complete by 2030. "It's people, it's impact, it's community, it's doing things that make a difference, and that's the best part," Kandel said.

Elevate SWFL is hosting a free community event Saturday night with pickleball, volleyball, live music and vendors.