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
Estero on the River loan to be paid off following vote by Council on May 18, 2022
Retiring this debt early will save the Village $4 million in interest Mayor Katy Errington presented the National Safe Boating Week proclamation to Flotilla Commander Terry Schwinghammer, Flotilla 96 of the U.S. Coast Guard [Read More.]
Planning, Zoning and Design Board on May 10, 2022
The meeting started with a public hearing for the Coconut Office Center monument sign at 23421 Walden Center Drive, located on the west side of US 41, just south of Coconut Road. The applicant was [Read More.]
River Oaks and Gulf Coast Driving Range purchase approved by Council on April 6, 2022
Councilmember Joanne Ribble (left) was congratulated on her 2022 Home Rule Hero Award byMayor Katy Errington Council acknowledged District 1 Councilmember Joanne Ribble who recently received a 2022 Home Rule Hero Award from [Read More.]
Estero on the River trail, US 41/Pelican Colony Blvd. traffic light and FEMA map revisions were addressed by Council on December 1, 2021
Public Comment: A resident reminded Council and the audience about the Estero Rotary Club’s annual Light up Estero event scheduled Saturday, December 4 at the Estero Community Park. Ordinance 2021-11 Council started their meeting with [Read More.]
Williams Road roundabout, Village monument signs and Estero on the River Phase 1 design contract addressed by Council on November 3, 2021
Left to right: FL-TF6 members Dustin Wagner, Christian Woolley, Sinead Imbaro (with Magnus Ares), Christopher Intartaglio, Glen Brownlee , Mayor Katy Errington, Mark Wahlig, and Shane Sibert Council started their meeting with Mayor [Read More.]
Estero on the River public meeting held on September 30, 2020
The Village recently conducted the final public meeting for residents to provide feedback regarding their priorities for the future of the 62-acre Estero on the River property. Susana Gonzales with Canin Associates described the south [Read More.]