The Estero RiverPark (fka “Estero on the River”) project is a transformative initiative by the Village of Estero, Florida, aimed at preserving natural landscapes, enhancing recreational opportunities, and promoting environmental sustainability. This purchase was conducted in response to residents’ requests to embrace Estero’s historic heritage and protect the environment. The plan includes a private-public partnership with the Estero Forever Foundation to provide services while keeping to the Village’s goal of government ‘lite’.
The project exemplifies the Village of Estero’s commitment to sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. By transforming a previously approved high-density development site into a preserved natural area with passive recreational amenities, the Village is enhancing the quality of life for its residents while protecting vital ecosystems.
Project Phases
Phase 1:
- Construction of an entry road and parking lot.
- Installation of a restroom facility.
- Development of a pedestrian bridge over the Estero River.
- Creation of walking paths, with a decision to use mulch instead of pavement to save costs.
Phase 2:
- Expansion of walking paths on both sides of the Estero River.
- Installation of fencing around the southern property boundary.
- Development of a path along the north side of Corkscrew Road.
Construction management for these phases is being handled by Manhattan Construction, with oversight by CW3 Engineering, Inc., ensuring adherence to project plans and timelines.
Property Location:
North of Corkscrew Road and East of US 41
The project encompasses approximately 62.5 acres at the northeast corner of Corkscrew Road and U.S. 41, extending north to Judith Lane and east to the Seminole Gulf Railway .
Environmental Considerations
This area lies within the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) and includes portions of the Estero River floodway.
The property is home to a pair of bald eagles, which have been nesting on-site since 2022. To protect these federally protected birds, construction activities are restricted during the nesting season, from October 1 to May 15.
Articles
Entertainment Campus & Estero RiverPark among topics addressed by Council on May 7, 2025
Front left to right; Mayor Joanne Ribble, Michael DiPierro, Immediate Past Flotilla Commander, and Chuck Moore, Flotilla Vice Commander. Back, left to right: Councilmembers Lori Fayhee, Jeff Hunt, Jon McLain, Rafael Lopez and Vice-Mayor [Read More.]
Estero RiverPark among topics for Council on May 7, 2025
Council will start their meeting at 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, proclaiming May 17-23, 2025, National Boating Week. Action items include a Comprehensive Plan evaluation and appraisal notification letter, a contract for an Eco-Historic Planning Study, Landscaping, [Read More.]
Happehatchee Center, park land purchase and Estero on the River projects among topics addressed by Council on November 6, 2024
Action Items Special Magistrate services agreement Estero’s Village Code provides for certain quasi-judicial matters to be heard before a Special Magistrate, in particular code enforcement. Council approved this agreement with Patrick Neale, Esq. who has [Read More.]
Budget hearings, Estero on the River FDEP funding, and Imperial Parkway monument sign were among topics covered by Council on September 8, 2022
First reading and public budget hearings Resolution No. 2022-23 Council approved this resolution adopting the tentative millage rate and tentative levying of ad valorem taxes for fiscal year 2022-2023 of 0.7700 mills ($0.7700 per $1,000 [Read More.]
State legislators recognized by Council on July 6, 2022
Senator Kathleen Passidomo (left) was presented with a proclamation from Mayor Katy Errington The meeting started with a proclamation recognizing the Honorable Senator and Senate President Designate Kathleen Passidomo for her commitment and innumerable contributions [Read More.]
Estero Crossing and Arcos Executive Center among applicants at the Planning, Zoning & Design Board on June 14, 2022
The River of Life Assembly of God is planning to replace their existing monument sign with a new, double-sided, non-illuminated sign. The church is located at 21580 River Ranch Road, on the west side of [Read More.]