A major development project in northwest Cape Coral is taking another step forward. The Seven Islands project, a 48-acre mixed-use plan off Old Burnt Store Road, could soon look very different from the first proposed.
The Cape Coral City Council is preparing to hold a public hearing on Sept. 17 to transmit a text amendment to the state for review. WINK News reporter Paul Dolan was at the scene to learn more about the changes.
The amendment would remove the square footage cap and reshape the layout of parts of the Seven Islands development. According to the city, this change will allow for more flexibility and potential commercial space.
“I wish they would hurry, you know, hurry it up,” said Debbie Mariner, a resident of Cape Coral.
After the state reviews the amendment, the proposal will return to the council for a final vote.
Mariner moved across from the development for the convenience of nearby shops and amenities.
“All the little shops are and everything, and how the house is across the street., You could just walk over and go have dinner or go shopping or whatever,” said Mariner.
The city planning staff is tweaking the comprehensive plan and land development code to accommodate the Seven Islands project. However, not all neighbors share Mariner’s enthusiasm.
“When we bought down here, eight years ago, they’re like, Oh yeah, seven islands is gonna be in any time, and we’re still waiting. You know, the longer I’ve been here, the more I’m like, I’m not sure if it’s a good thing,” said one neighbor who wished to remain anonymous.
The City of Cape Coral indicated that the next steps involve approving the developer’s agreement, the final contract, and the sale. Barring any extensions, the sale is expected to be finalized in December.