General Meeting October 10, 2023

NWNA General Meeting ("Open to All") October 10, 2023

Northwest Regional Library

519 Chiquita Blvd. N. Cape Coral, FL 33993

October 10, 2023 - 6:30 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.

Mayor Gunter

With Guest Speaker: Mayor John Gunter!

Guest Speaker - Mayor John Gunter
Presenting: "A Shared Vision of the Future of The NW Cape"

Mayor John Gunter

Meeting Agenda:

Committee Reports:

Don Apking, UEP Committee

New At-Large-Member

Don Apking - UEP Public Works Committee

• Lessons Learned and Information Package

Development Review Committee Chairman

John Smart

• 7 Islands Project "Gulf Gateway" update

• Coral Grove "Town Center" update

Waterway Committee Chairman

John Bashaw 2

John Bashaw

• Key Ditch Rock Removal

• Key Ditch NW Trail -Two Pines to Crystal Lake

• Minimum Wake Buoys N Spreader

Mayor John Gunter

John Bashaw, Waterways Chariman

Guest Speaker

Mayor John Gunter

"A Shared Vision of the Future of NW Cape"

NWNA President's End of Meeting Comments

Jerry Smith

• Promotion of NWNA Community Social on Nov. 9th!

"Meet and Greet new neighbors, developers, elected officials, city staff,

and business community leaders who are shaping the future of NW Cape"

Jerry Smith, President

Join us to learn more! - Together we're Better!

Communications News - September 2023

Lee Health Needs Assessment Survey

Lee Health is gathering input from our community through the attached community survey. This quantitative assessment will be supplemental to the current Community Health Needs Assessment underway for 2023. We ask for your support in distributing this survey to your networks and channels. Your leadership and collaboration are immensely valuable to our community as a whole in order to drive impactful programming. At the conclusion of the survey, we will share the data collected with your organization and the broader community.

To take the survey and support Lee Health
Click Here

Public Works Update 1-23

Cape Coral Public Works Weekly Update - September 11, 2023

As we continue to monitor the progress of the Utilities Project in the NW Cape, We are providing our members with weekly updates on both road closures and construction progress.

READ REPORT

News from the President

Jerry Smith, President

Presidents Updates for August 2023

The heat index this summer in many areas of Cape Coral has been unprecedented.     As a matter of fact, I had the opportunity to go offshore into the Gulf of Mexico to find 92-degree surface water temperatures 27 miles due west, from Boca Grande Pass.     Heading back home, my Garmin navigation system displayed a 102-water temperature in Matlacha Pass heading south toward the bridge, last week.

Excessive heat can slow your pace or take your will to get things done.    NOT the case here with our loyal group of volunteers serving the NWNA.

Since our May 2023 General Open Meeting featuring Interim City Manager, Mike Ilczyszyn, much has been accomplished.    This President's Update will be quite extensive, so get comfortable here at home or at your summer residence abroad.

Michael Ilczyszyn, Interim City Manager

In June, we met with Mike Ilczyszyn at City Hall to pursue permitting from Florida DEP to grant signage installation and maintenance work in "The Key Ditch".   This initial phase of work is required to establish a marked canal access pathway from Crystal Lake to the Two Pines channel in Charlotte Harbor.   This project will extend the Calusa Blueway Kayak trail to Crystal Lake Park, a boat, and kayak launch, which is in the bidding process.   To complete this work, additional permitting for the pruning of hurricane-damaged mangrove branches overhanging into The Key Ditch impacting egress will need to be addressed to create unobstructed access.

On August 7^th, Mike and I visited with the Interim Manager of Charlotte Harbor, Nicky Ross from Florida DEP to discuss the signage permitting and work in The Key Ditch.    The office visit ended with a site visit tour of Crystal Lake, NWNA proposed "Trappers Trail" which connects Crystal Lake's northern walkway with the City of Cape Coral's property on the shore of Charlotte Harbor.  The tour ended at the entry to The Key Ditch on the Spreader Canal just south of Jacaranda Parkway at the end of NW 31^st Street.    Permit Applications are to be filed with FLDEP.

NWNA has received funding and permission to remove rocks in The Key Ditch to prevent damage to shallow draft boats.    The donation and funding were made possible by Ed Stafford, the developer of proposed community North Cape Estates on the spreader canal between NW 42^nd Place and NW 41^st Ave off Gulfstream Parkway.     The contractor A-1 Seawalls and Docks provided a very budget conscious bid to provide the work.     THANK YOU, ED STAFFORD, AND A-1 SEAWALLS for supporting NWNA and our members.    This work will be scheduled in a few weeks.    NWNA Waterways Chairman, John Bashaw was responsible for the fundraising, securing the contractor and provided the vision for "The Trappers Trail".   

Permits for Crystal Lake Park development have been received and all work is out to BID.    Please review the site plan at Crystal Lake on the Cape Coral City website for the most recent renderings.   Please focus on the boat ramp and launch egress into the spreader canal system.    This will be an area of public use to include restrooms and facilities.   If you have visited or utilized the Burnt Store Boat Ramp just south of Embers Parkway off Burnt Store Road (almost 6 miles to the south) , you will undoubtedly realize this existing boat ramp can be a busy place at times.     Having additional access to the spreader at Crystal Lake Park on Caloosa Parkway will fill a void for those who wish to enjoy boating or kayaking in our quiet waters of the northern Lee County boarder spreader waterway.     This new remote access offers wonderful recreation opportunities.

Kith Long, District 6

On July 11^th, our District Council Member- Keith Long addressed our members and neighbors at the NWNA General Membership meeting held at the Kiwanis Club facility on Santa Barbara Blvd.     The "Town Hall" style meeting provided all attendees the opportunity to engage in a one-on-one dialogue.   Burnt Store Road corridor commercial zoning and Pine Island Road development dominated the subject matter.     Standing in front of a crowd and handling rapid-fire questions and comments without a moderator for 60 solid minutes can be grueling.   Those of you reading this who attended, know I tried to step in and give Keith a break.   He was just fine relentlessly moving forward to handle everyone's comments and questions.  We are lucky to have Keith on our side representing the residents in the NW Cape.   We have been represented well and the leadership of NWNA and Keith remain in close contact on the issues.     Mayor Gunter attended our meeting to spend time listening to the concerns raised by attendees.   We appreciated his support and for attending.

Watch the July 11th meeting Video - Click Here

Cape Coral Police Department was represented.  Members of the newly formed "Cape Coral Community Policing Unit" attended and educated attendees of this new initiative established by the department

I was asked to speak at the August 10^th, Southwest Cape Coral Action Committee (SWCCAC)-General Members Meeting at The Omelet Shop in Cape Coral.   Steve Collins, President of SWCCAC introduced me to the membership and my presentation was geared toward seeking residents to show up at City Council Meetings to support or oppose important issues. Consider volunteering or being part of a committee.   Don't Be a Wasn't- quoting Dr. Suess.     I made it clear that the NWNA is open to exploring synergistic collaboration with the SWCCAC.   The NWNA is forging new relationships with Interim City Manager, Mike Ilczyszyn and Florida DEP.   Together we can work toward the protection and preservation of the estuary and find responsible ways to expand the recreational use of our waterways.

Don Apking, President of Friends of Cape Coral Environment, Non-Profit 501 (c) 3 announced with Council Member- District 2, Dan Sheppard of a planned partnership to reduce the costs of Median Beautification.   "A million dollars per mile" cost index was shared, to accommodate the costs associated with development, irrigation, and installation of plant material of medians.    Plans are in the works to significantly reduce this burden.    Toward this end, we learned through Dan Shepard the city has invested in curb machines to cut costs with the reliance of outside contractors.    DPW will be trained and utilize the new equipment.

Council Member, Dan Sheppard shared an interesting point that really resonated with me.    Dan mentioned the importance and impact of any effort to increase the value of residential homes in our city.    Many of our residents and members in NW Cape have voiced displeasure of the abundance of dollar store and storage unit development.  I have been a vocal opponent.    The increase of the median price of homes in a community greatly impacts marketing demographics.    Reaching a certain plateau on the median price index scale deters future development of these types of applications.   There is also data supporting the closures of existing stores.   Important factors for us to consider.   SMART Development in the NW Pine Island Corridor and along Burnt Store Road North is paramount.

Dan Sheppard, District 2

Many good things have come from our May 2023 General Membership Meeting with Mike Ilczyszyn.   The working relationship with the Florida DEP is promising, as I mentioned in the past paragraphs.    We also requested NWNA representation at the 7 Islands Development Meetings held each month with Forest Development and the Economic Development City Staff of Cape Coral.    After securing permission from the developer, we were invited to these important meetings.   Development Review Committee Chairman, John Smart and I attended our first meeting in August 2023.

I believe we were well received.  Our goal is to offer guidance and collaboration on a true local level to help produce the greatest waterfront community in all of SW Florida.    A special destination offering access to marine life, estuary life and offering a Florida lifestyle, until now, found only in a dream.

Keep in mind that the 7 Islands property has not officially closed yet.   A significant investment in engineering studies on land and in the waterways has been realized.  The takeaway from our first meeting is the developer has demonstrated a commitment to attention to detail.    The architect is very engaged and seems to bring the project to life as he shares his vision.    John Smart and I will share information as it becomes available from the developer and this city.

In early November, NWNA is planning an evening indoor/ outdoor social gathering at an area restaurant.   On our invitation list to engage with NWNA Members and neighbors of our community will include-

• Developers Defining NW Cape
• Business Leaders
• Elected City Officials
• Elected County Officials
• Advocacy and Civic Groups

I look forward to seeing you at our next General Membership Meeting this fall.     Stay cool and stay connected.

Kind Regards, Jerry

Jaycee Park Community Forum 8/31/23

SUPPORT JAYCEE PARK REVITALIZATION

Come out and support the development and revitalization of Jaycee Park!

The city of Cape Coral is hosting a Community Forum for the public to learn more about proposed plans for Jaycee Park. The forum will be held on Thursday, Aug. 31, from 2-6 p.m. at Mercola Market, 125 SW 3rd Place.

The Community Forum is for informational purposes and will be open house style. Residents are encouraged to drop by and view site plans and renderings, speak with subject matter experts and provide feedback on the proposed designs.

Proposed improvements to Jaycee Park, 4215 SE 20th Place, include a boat dock with finger piers, a splash pad, additional walking paths in the park and along the shoreline, and a food truck court, among other items.

This event is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required to attend.

Jaycee Park Concept Design
Click Here!

Communications News - August 2023

Update on Median Beautification

Cape Coral Presentation on Median Beautification Plan

The full version of the City of Cape Coral's Median Beautification Plan has been made available:

Click Here

Communications News - July 2023

Update on Vote by Mail Ballots

Notice to Members - Vote by Mail Update

Excerpt from Ch2 News - July 14, 2023:

Did you know that a new law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis requires counties to purge requests before every general election? In order to continue to receive your absentee ballot visit your county site below.

Voters who don't want to pay a visit to the election office can request a ballot online or call the Supervisor of Elections office. Request your ballot online Click Here

• Lee County Supervisor of Elections: 239-533-8683
• Collier County: 239-252-8683
• Charlotte County: 941-833-5400
• Hendry County: 863-902-3393
• Glades County: 863-946-6005
• DeSoto County: 863-993-4871

Coral Grove Development Update

Coral Grove City Center details available

Coral Grove City Center will be a defining project for the Northwest Cape, if not the city as a whole.  You may have seen the vision on a sign on the north side of Pine Island Rd. where the project will sit between the electric power station and Bubbas.  But the sign doesn't do the vision justice.  If you go to the two websites below, you can get an in-depth look at what developers are planning for your dining, shopping, and entertainment future.

L&L Development Co., a successful New York City firm that has moved into the Florida market is behind the project.  The design was completed by Design 3 International, a worldwide architectural and planning firm (South America, the Middle East, Europe, and the USA).  This project has big money and big ideas behind it.  Their goal is to capture the classic Florida charm with the latest modern amenities.

How good could this be?  How does a cinema, a bowling alley, a comedy club, and an outdoor multi-purpose entertainment area sound?  Cafes, brewery pubs, coffee shops, retail, fitness center, hotel, offices, and a grocery store, not to mention five sites along Pine Island Rd. for commercial or office use.  The project will also include over 1200 residences in apartments and townhomes on the site's edges and along the town square with retail shops below.

The project has been in permitting since December 2022.  Let's hope city staff prioritizes this one because when it's done, it will be a game-changer for our area and a gathering place for residents and visitors.

[video mp4="https://nwcape.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/coral-grove-lifestyle.mp4" poster="" ][/video]Discover Coral Grove - CLICK HERE NOW!Discover Town Center Details - CLICK HERE NOW

City Median Beautification "Open House"

City to Host Open House for Embers Parkway Median Improvement Project

GREAT OPPORTUNITY! For those of you who are interested in median beautification here is a chance to weigh in! You may have heard through the NWNA meetings or bulletins or maybe on Nextdoor about the two median beautification programs available in the city. There is the City managed 5-year Median Improvement Program and the residents/business-managed Median Beautification Program.

The City is working on a Median Improvement Project on Embers Parkway between Burnt Store and Old Burnt Store Road. The project includes both median beautification and access management elements. The project was delayed for a bit due to IAN and other issues but it is picking up steam again. The city would like to hear your thoughts by attending an OPEN HOUSE Wednesday, June 28, from 4 - 6 p.m. at the City of Cape Coral Public Works Building, 815 Nicholas Parkway East. After the meeting, there may be an opportunity to hear about other beautification projects underway by the Friends of the Cape Coral Environment organization.

More Info Here

NWNA Reminder on Fertilizer Ban

Dear NWNA Members,

We wanted to remind you of the fertilizer ban currently in effect until September 30. As you may already know, the ban is part of our commitment to protecting our local waterways from harmful runoff and ensuring the health and safety of our community.

During this time, we ask that you refrain from using any fertilizers on your lawns or gardens. Instead, consider using natural alternatives like compost or organic fertilizers. If you do need to use fertilizer for any reason, please make sure to follow the guidelines outlined by your local government.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain the health and beauty of our environment. Thank you for being a part of our efforts to promote sustainability and protect our natural resources.

Here We Grow Again - May 2023 Newsletter

Development Projects Updates

While apartments seem to be taking up all the oxygen, there is other development going on in our area.  Here are some of the retail and restaurant projects coming to our area.

Walk-Ons Sports Bistreaux, a Louisiana-based chain of restaurants/sports bars that features Cajun and Louisiana-style food, is proposing to build one in the parking lot of the shopping center on the north side of Pine Island Rd. just east of Aldi, home to the Around the Clock Fitness Center and one of the most colorful storage facilities in Cape Coral.  Po Boys and Gumbo are coming your way!

Walk On Bistro

If you've seen construction going on at the NE corner of Skyline and Veterans during your travels, that would be for an Outback Steak House. 

The old Golden Corral on Pine Island Rd., which we reported was bought with plans for a new restaurant and possibly some retail, will be the location of a Texas-based sports bar and restaurant known as Twin Peaks. Twin Peaks bills itself as the ultimate sports lodge reminiscent of a comfortable cabin in the mountains with down-home cooking, plenty of specialty beers and all served by the Twin Peaks Girls.

Twin Peaks

Groundbreaking for a 30,000-square-foot retail project in our area is expected to begin this summer on the north side of Pine Island Road at SW 10th Place, just east of Boaters Paradise. The Shops at Del Mar will consist of four single-story buildings with 370 feet of frontage on Pine Island Road. The shopping center will offer a drive-thru unit and parking. The project is expected to be completed by the fall of 2024.

The Shops at Del Mar

On the north side of Tropicana Pkwy., just a lot or two east of Burnt Store Rd., there is a plan to build a Dollar General Store.  While there are a few already in our area, you can never get enough convenience and consistency.   

Will Burnt Store Rd. be a Storage Facility hub?

Eventually, there could be four storage facilities dominating the scenery along Burnt Store Rd. between Embers and Tropicana Parkways.  How all this plays out with City Council's moratorium on new Storage Facilities and the restrictions placed on them along Burnt Store Rd. remains to be seen.

The 3-story Embers Storage facility on the north side of Embers and the west side of Burnt Store Rd. is in permitting.  Area residents are voicing their disapproval of the project to City Officials because of building size and increased traffic in proximity to surrounding homes.  Now, there's a proposal to build another storage facility on the north side of Embers, but on the first block east of Burnt Store Rd. It's called Marble Creek Self-Storage.

Hideaway Storage is already operational on the south side of the 7/11 at Tropicana and Burnt Store.  A facility known as Burnt Store Self-Storage features six 2-story buildings and is currently in permitting for the NW corner of Tropicana and Burnt Store.  They are, however, selling a 1-acre lot at the corner to be used for commercial purposes such as retail or restaurant.  That's a positive sign as Tropicana and Embers are the main entry points into the resort to be built on the Seven Islands.

Burnat Store Storage

Even though it's known for its 644 apartments, the project on the southwest corner of Veterans and Pine Island Rd. also features a commercial portion.  Fischler Real Estate is marketing the commercial space which is about 6.5 acres at the corner of Veterans and Pine Island Rd. The advertisement has a conceptual site plan showing what the project may look like as concepts can always change.  The first phase of 316 apartments in six buildings and a clubhouse are in permitting now along with infrastructure.  In the concept below, suggestions are for a hotel in the blue section, restaurant/retail in the pink, "other commercial" in the orange, and a stormwater management pond in the green.

There are another six buildings slated for later construction on the western side of the property. Take note of the access road that separates the commercial portion from the residential but also connects eastbound Pine Island Rd. to Veterans.

Conceptual Site Plan

General Meeting Summary May 2023

General Membership Meeting RECAP- May 2023

Once again, in my office at 7:02 AM sipping coffee and reminiscing about our meeting the other night. My first Open Public Meeting as president and we attracted more attendees than expected. New rows of seating seem to appear in the blink of an eye, just before commencement. Thank you all for pitching in! I noticed the press, some new faces, neighbors, and family members. These gatherings are so important for our members and residents to obtain "unfiltered and pure information" on important issues impacting our way of life in NW Cape.

Jerry Smith, President

Click the link below to see the video of our meeting

General Meeting Summary May 2023Michael Ilczyszyn, Interim City Manager

Interim Cape Coral City Manager, Michael Ilczyszyn, provided answers. He handled all our questions in a lighthearted, cordial way. This resonated with the crowd. It did not take long for everyone to settle in.

Michael was invited to present a new interactive map outlining economic development projects in the city which was recently released out of his office. This is a tremendous asset for our Development Review Committee. Progress of development projects can be followed daily. Upon completion of the presentation, Michael graciously agreed to stay with us for the entire meeting. This was much appreciated. He jumped back into many discussions and was invited to close out our meeting. He smiled.

Link to Interactive map Click Here

Our members were delighted by the announcement of the formation of the NW Cape Waterways Action Committee, led by our immediate past president of NWNA- John Bashaw. This committee was formed to respond to the overwhelming request of our members to create a direct access pathway (EXIT) from the North Spreader Canal directly to Charlotte Harbor. John's presentation discussed three options under consideration.  It was agreed that all three options are needed however, option 1 presents the least path of resistance and will be the focus for the near term. The path for Option 1 may be viewed using the link below:

Link to Option 1 Path

John Bashaw, Waterways Chariman

John's presentation included an immediate request for funding from members and the business community to remove large rocks blocking boat egress in the KEY DITCH. A contractor has been secured to provide this service. The Key Ditch was utilized prior to Hurricane Ian by (shallow draft) boaters to directly access Charlotte Harbor. The entrance to Key Ditch is located just south of Jacaranda Parkway in the North Spreader and the exit to Charlotte Harbor is at Two Pines Channel. A Request for a Proposal from a qualified contractor will be pursued to prune and trim mangroves hanging in the Key Ditch waterway. This work and other maintenance will be pursued under a maintenance permit held by the city. Installing Paddling Trail markers to identify The Calusa Blueway Trail can also assist boater navigation departing the Key Ditch and entering open areas and islands approaching the Two Pines channel to Charlotte Harbor. This project can benefit kayakers and boaters of Cape Coral and all of Lee County.

If you would like to contribute toward the NORTH SPREADER WATERWAY EXIT, please contact John Bashaw or myself, directly. Contact Jerry or Contact, John

Again, special thanks to the Interim, Cape Coral City Manager, Michael Ilczyszyn for attending and remaining on site after the meeting to handle many one-on-one discussions. Much appreciated! Having Michael Ilczyszyn at the meeting gave him the opportunity to understand our needs and to educate us on the jurisdiction of our waterways, and the limitations and opportunities involving this project.

Kind regards,
Jerry Smith, President-NWNA[video mp4="https://nwcape.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/May-2023-Regular-Meeting_Final.mp4" poster="" ][/video]

May 1 - Deadline for Canal Porta Potty Removal

Alert: Call for Porta-Potty Removal

PORTA POTTY COLLECTION IN CANAL SYSTEM EXPIRES MAY 1, 2023 ****PLEASE REPORT THE LOCATION FOR REMOVAL****

May 1, 2023

The City Contractor assigned to remove PORTA POTTY debris from the city canal system is requesting the location of remaining PORTA POTTY units in the waterways, west of Burnt Store Road.

Please report the full address of the Porta Potty in the waterway and a brief description of the location.

Examples:
-in mangroves directly across my dock
-beneath my dock
-partially visible in the undeveloped lot next door

We appreciate your assistance and for coming together to join in the efforts to keep our canals clean and vibrant! The contract with the city will expire on May 1^st, 2023, so please report the location to us today.  Click the link below to send us an email:

Click Here

NWCape Holds "Clean the Cape" Event

   The NWNA would like to thank all of our volunteers who came out for our "Clean the Cape" neighborhood cleanup this past Saturday. April 1. This event was part of the nationwide Great American Cleanup held every year at the beginning of April's "Earth Month".

The Keep Lee County Beautiful organization provides supplies and insurance while NWNA organizes the actual cleanup as we have done for the past 23+ years.  Because of your outstanding community spirit, I am proud to say that our cleanup was the largest in Lee County.  We had 73 volunteers plus our organizers and covered areas from Pine Island Road north to Crystal Lake Park and east from the spreader canal to Santa Barbara Blvd.  

Special shout out to Dominos for their pizza donations enjoyed by our volunteers and Cape Coral Fire Department.

Waste Pro estimates nearly 4 tons of trash were removed from our area and I must say it is easy to see the improvement.  No doubt there is much more to be done.

Hopefully, we can get as much participation in the city-wide cleanup to be held on April 22 (check out the link below on how to participate)

April 22 Earth Day Event

Again thank you all for your participation! 

Snakes of Cape Coral

The Florida Kingsnake is a beautiful, docile reptile.  Typically, adults are 3-4 ft.  Unfortunately, these attributes make it highly prized by collectors, and it has become quite rare.  I picked up the one shown here in the NW Cape, and it made no fuss when I drove it to my house for a photograph. 

Florida King Snake

Snakes get a lot of bad press, going all the way back to the Bible.  Also, some are venomous, and many bite when handled, but not all.  But you must give them their due.  Without legs, they can climb, swim, and are adept hunters.  There are dozens of species in our area.  I will not attempt to mention them all, concentrating on some of the most common or interesting species.

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is relatively rare, and to be avoided.  It is thick-bodied and large, typically 3-7 ft, with a record length of 8 ft.  This one was about 3.5 feet (I did not attempt to measure it!), from the south side of Crystal Lake.  If you see one, just leave it alone and let it go its way.  Most snakebites result from people getting involved with the snake in some manner.

Eastern Diamondback SnakeSouthern Black Racer

The Southern Black Racer is probably the most familiar snake in the area, often found in yards.  Its shiny black color and thin body make for easy identification, as does its speed (for a snake), for which it is named.  Up to 5 ft, but usually 3-4.

The Yellow Rat Snake is another docile snake that is easily handled, as is the case with most rat snakes.  If you are inclined to keep a local snake as a pet, this species is a good choice.  Usually 3-5 feet long; record 7.25 feet.  Often found around structures.  They commonly feed on lizards, frogs, rodents, and birds and their eggs.

Yellow Rat SnakeFlorida Brown Snake

The Florida Brown Snake in this (fuzzy) picture is an adult found swimming in my pool.  The maximum size if about 19 inches, thus being one of our smaller snakes.  They are common and found in several forms (subspecies) throughout the middle and eastern United States.

The Eastern Garter Snake is widespread in the eastern portions of the US and southern Canada.  For those from the north, this is likely to be the snake you saw most often.  Like many water snakes, they do not tolerate handling and will struggle, bite, defecate, release a smelly musk, and do whatever else they can to convince you to release them.  They are moderately sized, up to 4 feet, but usually 2-3.  The one in the photo is also from my pool, which seems to be something of a snake trap.

Eastern Garter SnakeFlowerpot Snake

The Flowerpot Snake, also called the Brahminy Blind Snake, is one of many non-native species of animals in Cape Coral (more on that later in another post), in this case originally from southern Asia.  It gained its worldwide distribution through its presence in the soil of potted plants, hence its name.  It spread rapidly partly due to reproduction by parthenogenesis (it is an all-female species), reproduction that does not require fertilization to produce offspring.  Its body form and small size (usually less than 6 inches) cause it to often be mistaken for an earthworm.  Close inspection will reveal its scales.  I find them frequently drowned in my pool, falling in from adjacent planters.

The Eastern Kingsnake in another species that is easy to handle.  Its name derives from the fact that it will eat other snakes, including rattlesnakes.  For our area, this large snake reaching up to nearly 7 feet, although typically 4-5.  The pattern is the source of a local name in some areas-the Chain Snake.

Eastern King Snake

If you have an inherent fear of snakes, that fear would be best replaced by respect.  They will run away from you if possible, or stand their ground, but they will not pursue you or lurk under your bed waiting for you to put your feet down in the middle of the night (not often, anyway).  And they are important cogs in our wild and suburban ecosystems in the NW Cape.

Gordon R. Ultsch, Ph.D.

NWNA General Meeting Summary - March 14, 2023

Presidents General Membership Meeting RECAP

March 14th, 2023 - Northwest Regional Library, Cape Coral

I am at my desk enjoying a cup of coffee this morning, following a very successful meeting last evening.    The meeting was a success mainly due to the fact; I made it out alive.    All kidding aside,  your passion and voices were heard and were truly welcome.

If you attended this "Members Only" meeting,  it is my hope that you left with a renewed spirit.  This morning, I was elated to find a few emails from members who want to volunteer on committees.

Ahead of this meeting, NWNA prepared and tabulated the results of our 2023 Focus Project Survey which highlighted; Utility Expansion, 7 Islands, NW Spreader Exit, and Beautification.  NW Spreader Canal Exit was the #1 Top Priority and received the largest margin of votes.  Winning easily by a three-to-one margin.

My highlights from the evening:

• As the night progressed, we came together as neighbors. 
• The show of hands in the room overwhelmingly supported and validated the results of our survey, moving the NW Spreader Canal Exit into the #1 position and primary NWNA Focus Project for 2023.  Overwhelming vocal support. 
• Watching the emotions and reactions of our members ranging from disbelief and euphoria during an extensive Development Committee presentation revealing renderings of the many large projects coming to the Pine Island Road Corridor. 
• Members responding to our need for additional help and willingness to come together more often.

I must admit, going into my first meeting as president……I had no idea what I was getting into.   Just before my introduction, I left the podium to welcome my wife seating in the crowd.   One gentleman mentioned to my wife "you may have to go up and save him".

The evening was a success.   Our simple goal was to extract the collective voice of our members.   The only way we could achieve this was to create an atmosphere in which people felt comfortable speaking freely.

I believe we accomplished this. I look forward to our next meeting which most of us felt should be more frequent.   More social events will be planned and seem to be well received.   

Thank you for coming out in support!

Jerry Smith, President NWNA

Meeting Slides

Video of Meeting

Thank You for Watching!

Matlacha looks to the future with new vision!

A New Beginning for Matlacha

In the wake of IAN's catastrophic impact on Matlacha restaurants, businesses, and homes located along  Pine Island Road NW, a vision for a new beginning has emerged.

Michael Hannon, President of the Matlacha Civic Association shared a collection of renderings with neighbors and the local community to provide hope for the future.    The new elevated structures, docks, seawalls, and reclaimed dry land depict the return of the thriving waterfront destination that has been temporarily lost.

Tremendous progress has been made to clean up storm debris and temporarily restore utilities in the area.   The rebuild of Matlacha began and the promise for a better tomorrow is visible on the horizon.

NW Cape UEP Project Brings Sustainable Development Goals

UEP Progress in 2022 by the City of Cape Coral

This past year saw the City of Cape Coral make considerable progress of the Utility Expansion Program (UEP).  Unfortunately, Hurricane Ian has slowed progress and the UEP has taken a backseat to repairing other critical infrastructure needs within the City.  Rest assured, the project is moving forward. 

Work recently completed to date includes the following:

• Completion of punch-list items related to the construction of utilities in North 2.
• Completion of the design and award of construction projects for about half of the North 1 area.
• Completion and acceptance of the overall City-wide UEP Master Plan.
• Nearing award of a design contract for North 3.

A map detailing the utility areas and anticipated service dates, as presented in the Master Plan, is as follows:

Each of the above-completed tasks is discussed briefly below. 

Completion of North 2

While there are still some minor items to be repaired, the installation of utilities in North 2 was essentially completed in 2022. Water, sewer, and reclaimed water lines were brought to all residential and commercial properties within North 2.  Roads have been reconstructed, landscaping repaired, and currently, there has been a good response from homeowners required to hook up to the new utilities.  For practical purposes, we are calling North 2 complete.

Completion of Design and Award of Construction for About Half of North 1

The City used much of what was learned in the design and construction of North 2 and incorporated pertinent items into the design of North 1.  North 1 will be broken into 11 different construction contracts, all of which will be considerably smaller than those of North 2.  North 1 east will have 5 construction contracts and North 1 west will have 6.  The 6 construction contracts of North 1 west have been bid and the total construction cost for the area is approximately $203 million.  Construction of the 5 contracts in North 1 east will be bid and commence in late 2023 or early 2024.

The City will use the same methodology to assess UEP costs to homeowners as has been previously used.  Unfortunately, due to current economic conditions in southern Florida and across the country, the assessment cost to the typical homeowner in the North 1 west area will average approximately $33,500.  While this amount may seem very high, it is in line with other area costs when adjusted to 2023 dollars.  Also, all homeowners will have the option of paying the assessment in a single lump sum or paying it off over 20, 25 or 30 years.

Please keep in mind that North 1 is completely in the NE section of Cape Coral.

UEP Master Plan

The UEP Master Plan is necessary to prioritize future areas for utility expansion, to identify existing infrastructure needs necessary to accommodate future expansion, to establish realistic schedules, and to establish preliminary cost estimates.  Please note that the dates presented below are from the UEP Master Plan and will likely be adjusted due to Hurricane Ian's impacts.

The following is brief summary of the findings and recommended improvements within future service areas. 

• North 3 will be the next area to receive utilities after North 1. This area is west of Burnt Store Road, north of the recently completed North 2 area, and extends north to Kismet Parkway.  North 3 is expected to be complete by 2025.

• Also expected to be complete by 2025 is an expansion of utilities north on Burnt Store Road to the city line. This allows the planned Hudson Creek development to move forward and will spur commercial development along Burn Store Road.  Much of this expansion may be funded by the Hudson Creek project.  Finally, by 2025 a new 22,000 linear foot sewer main on Veteran's Parkway will be constructed which is necessary for future sewer expansion.

• By 2027, the existing North reverse osmosis water plant on Kismet Parkway needs to be expanded from 6 to 18 million gallons per day.

• By 2030, the city intends to construct utilities in the North 4 and North 5 areas. Also, a new water storage tank will be constructed in the northeast section of the city.

• By 2035, the city intends to construct utilities in North 6 and North 7 areas. The city also intends to build a new water reclamation facility (wastewater treatment plant) in the northwest.  The site is adjacent to the existing reverse osmosis water plant on Kismet Parkway near Chiquita Boulevard. 

• By 2040, the city intends to construct utilities in North 8 and North 9 areas.

• North 10 through North 12 areas are planned for 2045.

Design of North 3

The City is in the process of hiring an engineer to design utilities in the North 3 area. This effort is approximately 5 months behind schedule due to Hurricane Ian.  The design is expected to be complete in approximately 1 year with construction commencing in 2024.  Assessment costs for North 3 will likely be in line with those for North 1 west but will be refined as the design progresses.

The City is progressing well on the UEP, although recent weather impacts have certainly impacted the planned schedule.  If you have comments or questions on work completed or on planned work, please contact me at publicworks@nwcape.com. 

Don Freeman, P.E.

NWNA Public Works Committee

Explore NW Cape's Thriving 2023 Development

Here we Grow - Development Preview for 2023

Here's an idea for starting off the new year.  Take a drive around the Northwest Cape and commit what you see to memory.  By the end of 2023, things may look a lot different than they do today.

You can see what we mean already with shovels in the dirt currently for several projects along Pine Island Rd.  Groundwork is underway at Coral Shores for an Achieva Credit Union going up on the west side of the 7/11. Ground has been broken for the "Springs at Coral Shores," a 308-unit apartment complex, with two national (but unnamed) restaurants along Pine Island Rd. just east of McDonald's.

The Latigo Group is well into building infrastructure for a 444-unit apartment complex called "The Hadley" on the east side of Chiquita between Embers Pkwy. and Pine Island Rd. Latigo Group is a high-end builder out of Los Angeles and had been busy in Florida recently.

"The Club" is a 195-unit apartment complex on the west side of the Sam's Club parking lot off Pine Island Rd.  We did a You Tube video on this in Spring 2022 looking at an empty field.  It is empty no more and "The Club" is well on its way to taking shape.

As we reported a year before construction started, an ABC Liquor store is going up on the northeast side of Chiquita and Pine Island Rd.  Across the street on the south side of Pine Island Rd. is a US Postal Center and a Daybreak/Union 76 convenience store and gas station. They will be joined by a 20,000 sq ft Goodwill Store, located on the west side of Aldi, that is currently in permitting.

The following projects have just recently filed for Site Development and/or Commercial Construction permits.  This means they're out of the talking stage and into the moving forward stage, so we believe there is a very good chance you'll see ground being broken in 2023 for the following:

The "Atlantica at Cape Coral" is a 380-unit apartment complex that will be across Pine Island Rd. from Carolina Apartments.  Two commercial buildings would front the development.

The Cape Coral Town Center, also known as "Coral Grove" is a mixed-use development with 300 apartments in phase I followed by retail, restaurants, and a hotel in an environment that could very well make it a destination location for Cape Coral.  It will span the area between the electrical plant and Bubbas on Pine Island Rd.  See "Coral Grove" on the NWNA website for more details.

"Pine Island 300" is the working title for a 300-unit multi-family project with two commercial buildings in front.  It will go between the German American Club and "Stor Quest" Storage on Pine Island Rd.

A couple of blocks north of the Pine Island Kohl's is the 26-acre, 412-unit, $120 million "Siesta Lakes" development on La Paz Terrace.  On the back burner for years, the site was purchased by Shoreham Capital in early 2022. Their goal is to deliver best-in-class amenities to Cape Coral's growing population.  Well see soon if they can deliver as they've just applied for permits to get the project rolling.

Back by Burnt Store Rd., permits have been sought for the land on the west side of Veterans and the north side of Pine Island Rd.  In public hearings, the project was described as a mixed-use development.  Early projections called for 6 multi-family buildings with 500 apartments, retail, restaurants and a hotel.  Check out the developer Gilbane Development on-line to see what they're capable of.

Further west, The Matlacha Fire Dept. is seeking to get Lee County approval for a helipad to be built next to their station on Pine Island Rd.  Lee County is also reviewing a plan to open a used car lot/rental car business at the old welcome center on the south side of Pine Island Rd. just as you enter Matlacha.

At Burnt Store Rd. and Tropicana, across from the 7/11, a storage facility is working its way through permitting.  It will consist of six 2-story buildings for climate-controlled storage.

Further north is the RV Resort at Tranquility Lake.  Phase I is complete and Equity Lifestyles Properties is hosting FEMA trailers there for Hurricane Ian victims while Phase II and III are being constructed.  At completion, the Resort will have a capacity of 500 RVs.

The Surfside Outpatient Center on Surfside and Veterans Pkwy will be getting a 14,000 sq ft expansion that will add more specialty services and a comprehensive rehabilitation center.

While we predict these projects will begin in 2023, there are many variables that could change things such as economics or natural disasters.   In case you were curious, these projects account for over 2,500 new apartments in the NW Cape area not to mention 500 RV spaces for visitors the area.

Keep in mind that there are other projects in the discussion phase with city staff that will bring more amenities and many more residential units to our area, but we'll talk about them at a later date.

Photo overview of Coral Grove coming to Pine Island Rd

Back at the dawning of 2023, we told you about the name change from Cape Coral Town Center to Coral Grove and that the project was gaining steam.  Our article had several photos of what it might look like on the inside but now we've got a picture from overhead.  If you drive down Pine Island Rd. you can see a sign for the development with this photo on it.  But, we'll provide it here for your safety so you won't have to take your eyes off the road when you drive by.

Coral Grove features a Town Park surrounded by specialty stores, retail, and places to eat and drink. 

The developer, is L&L Development Group, part of L&L Holding Co. of NY City.  With high visibility projects in NY City, their first South Florida venture is the mixed-use Wynwood Plaza in Miami.  There are several phases with infrastructure and a 300-unit Multi-Family development as Phase I.  The construction contractor is Brooks and Freund, who built some of the most familiar projects in our area.  This includes The Palms of Cape Coral, Midtown Apts., Aspire Apts., and Savonna Apts.

For more information or email updates go to these two websites: coral-grove.com and authenticff.com.  You can also check our previous stories on this development at Nwcape.com.

Stay Tuned for More Updates Coming Soon Folks!

The Resort at Tranquility Lake Helping Locals

The RV Resort at Tranquility Lake, off Durden Parkway and Burnt Store Rd., has already made an impact on the city of Cape Coral in a good way before it even opens by providing a service for the community, they hope to be a productive part of.

While it wasn't slated to begin accepting guests until the fall of 2023, they have opened its facility to FEMA trailers housing those who lost their homes permanently or temporarily in Hurricane Ian. The temporary residents are from Lee County with many from the barrier Islands such as Ft. Myers Beach and Pine Island.

On February 15^th, 2023¸ board members of the Northwest Neighborhood Association were given a tour by Resort Manager, Kevin Karau of Equity Lifestyle Properties.  The FEMA trailers, all similar in appearance, were neatly arranged on pads throughout the park giving it a neat, uniform appearance.

Photo:

John Smart,
Development Review Committee ChairmanEd Guidos,
Vice President of the NWNA

While Tranquility Lake is still building out to its eventual capacity of 500 retail luxury RV Trailer Pads, it does have water and sewer to support the housing of up to 144 RVs as part of its first phase of construction. There are about 105 FEMA trailers parked there now.

Applicants must pass background checks to be allowed on the property. It's a requirement by Resort Manager Equity Lifestyles Properties of all their guests now and when the Resort is opened and fully functioning. Rules are stringent to maintain a clean, safe environment. Temporary residents are on a 30-day renewal basis and must show proof that they are making progress towards finding permanent housing. The FEMA trailers are temporary and expected to remain for about 6 months, up to 2 years.

Occupancy limits are enforced, and 30-day maintenance inspections are required.  The FEMA travel trailers set on the property are completely turnkey and ready for occupancy.

Once construction of the remaining phases are complete, the RV Resort at Tranquility Lake will be a full-fledged resort environment surrounding two lakes that will eventually include amenities such as a pool, clubhouse, tennis courts, and a dog park.     The community is gated with 24-hour security.

The reservations center number for Equity Lifestyle Properties is 1-877-570-2267. Equity Lifestyle runs 445 RV parks and campsites throughout the U.S. and Canada.