The Planning & Zoning Board and Design Review Board conducted a joint meeting for a presentation of the proposed Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
A consultant for the project reviewed the fact that there had been a number of ways for the community to participate in the planning process. Over 1,000 comments were made online, there were focus groups with a mix of people representing the chamber of commerce, business, the park, etc., and two public workshops were conducted.
Connectivity and safety were determined as key to an implementable plan. The two safest routes would be the utility corridor going down to Bonita Springs and the SUN Trail which could possibly be completed by 2030.
Public Comment: 5 residents spoke, with several from The Vines expressing concerns about safety issues connected to a bike path along the railroad track on their property.
The consultant’s report will include recommendations for signage programs, bicycle safety and bicycle parking. This will be reviewed again in a May 15 Council workshop.
Design Review Board Public Hearing
Following the Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan presentation, the Design Review Board conducted a public hearing for Aldi at Estero Town Center.
This is a proposed 22,149 square-foot grocery store which is located east of US 41 and directly north of Walmart at Estero Parkway.
On April 10, the Board had voted to recommend a continuance for two weeks until the Village Land Use Attorney could address the existing pole signage or billboard on the applicant’s property since pole signage is not allowed in Estero.
Public Comment: 4 residents spoke in favor of Aldi.
The Board approved the deviation request for the reduced FDOT-approved entryway with a right in and right out as well as the store design and monument sign.
The next Design Review Board meeting will be at 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 8, 2019.