This article is part four of a six-part series focusing on the six most critical questions about development and commercial property in Southwest Florida. Southwest Florida has experienced remarkable growth over the last decade. This expansion is anticipated to continue through the next several years, with several new commercial zones in our region poised for significant development. While some of these corridors are still in their infancy, others are building on already visible growth and hold expectations for increased activity. This brings us to question four in our six-part series: What Are the Hottest Corridors in Southwest Florida? There are seven primary areas of commercial growth in our region. Let’s discuss them, starting in Charlotte County and working our way south: Punta Gorda Airport The Punta Gorda Airport itself is expanding to elevate the passenger experience, and its neighboring area is also on track for development. This submarket’s growth will continue to surge, thanks to its convenient access to I-75, Tampa and Miami, as well as more affordable prices for land in Charlotte County. Dave Gammon, director of Charlotte County Economic Development, forecasts that 4 million square feet of commercial distribution, warehousing, and manufacturing will be delivered by 2026. Burnt Store Corridor Burnt Store Road in Northwest Cape Coral currently has 14 individual residential and commercial developments in various stages of activity. Plans include Hudson Creek, a mixed-use development north of Jacaranda Parkway. Hudson Creek will feature 2,500 single-family homes, 1,000 additional multi-family dwellings, 425,000 sf of retail and restaurant, 500 hotel rooms, and 150,000 feet of office space, as well as an assisted living facility and an educational institution. Ultimately, the numerous new development projects along Burnt Store Road will introduce 13,000 housing units and create jobs for 1,100 future employees. Pine Island Road Long-time Cape Coral residents have witnessed rapid growth along the Pine Island Road corridor for the past 15 years, and this trend will continue, particularly on the west end of Pine Island Road. Whereas retail had dominated prior growth in the area, current city planning records show a surge of multifamily development in the works. More than 5,000 apartment units are under construction or in planning along the 4.5 mile stretch between Santa Barbara Boulevard and Burnt Store Road. Fort Myers River District Fort Myers city leaders have long envisioned increased density in midtown and downtown for years, and that vision will soon be realized. Construction is underway for a 275-unit apartment development downtown, and numerous luxury waterfront apartments and condominiums are currently in the permitting process. Other plans for enriching the River District include an entertainment venue and food truck park, an intimate pedestrian park, and a 9-story hotel. Skyplex Considered Lee County’s most important economic development initiative, Skyplex is Lee County Port Authority’s non-aviation development project situated strategically between Southwest Florida International Airport and Daniels Parkway. The Skyplex master plan includes complementary clusters of development over a total of 8.15 million square feet. With hotels, retail, dining, and office space, Skyplex is expected to generate $2.9 billion in revenue and create 21,000 full-time jobs in the region. Alico Road Anyone who has traveled between Lee and Collier Counties on I-75 has been privy to the rapid growth of the Alico Road Corridor on both sides of the interstate. This area has seen 2.6 million square feet of commercial and industrial development over just the last three years. The airport/I-75/FGCU submarket is quickly becoming its own micro-city: a mixed-use commercial and industrial logistics hub supported by some of the largest demand generators in the region. The Lee County Economic Development Office anticipates that this surge of development will produce approximately 60,000 jobs within the next half-decade. East Collier County Collier County has always held a reputation as a premium, affluent community, but until the early 2000s, very little development had occurred east of I-75. That has certainly changed over the past two decades, with Collier County’s population quickly growing eastward, particularly along Immokalee Road and Oil Well Road. Ave Maria has flourished into a community of more than 4,000 homes, and no fewer than three villages are planned and approved between Naples and Ave Maria. In fact, projections suggest that the intersection of Immokalee Road and Collier Boulevard will evolve into Collier County’s population epicenter by 2030. Other commercial projects east of I-75 include Uline’s expansive 975,000 square foot regional distribution center and the new Great Wolf Lodge resort. Answering Your Questions Are you hoping to invest in the next hot commercial corridor in Southwest Florida? The Commercial Property Experts at Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida (CPSWFL) hold decades of experience understanding the dynamics of our commercial property landscape. Our team is ready to answer your questions. To reach us, complete our online contact form or call 239-489-3600 to speak with an expert.
