The City of Bonita Springs is currently accepting proposals for new mixed-use development along the Imperial River in Bonita Springs. You may recall that back in 2018, the city considered selling the ‘Bamboo Village’ property. After some consideration, the city has decided to engage the services of CBRE, Inc. to aid in the solicitation and selection of this process.

CBRE has encouraged all respondents to gain a thorough understanding and appreciation for Bonita Springs’ culture before submitting an RFP (request for proposal). The city’s tagline, “Small Town Charm. Big Bright Future.” holds true to this coastal paradise. Though major improvements have been made to the downtown area in the past few years, city officials have worked hard to successfully preserve this “small-town charm,” while unlocking the city’s potential.

The property in question sits along the newly renovated Old 41 Rd, across from the Everglades Wonder Gardens and Riverside Park. The site, now referred to as “Imperial Crossing” is divided by the beautiful Imperial River. This area is perhaps the most important piece of undeveloped real estate in the downtown area. The development of this site would play a pivotal role in the future of Bonita Springs.

Last year, the City Council accepted the Conceptual Design Schemes completed by DPZ CoDESIGN (“DPZ“), pictured above, as a possibility. However, the city will consider any developer’s plan to develop this site to its highest and best use. In order to do so, some guidelines have been put in place.

The development will be mixed-use, combining commercial retail space with either townhomes or condos. City leaders have stressed the importance for developers to take full advantage of this prime piece of Bonita Springs riverfront real estate while maintaining the walkability the city has worked so hard to achieve. This would ideally involve incorporating outdoor dining, decks, pathways, courtyards and green spaces throughout. City leaders have also expressed an interest in maintaining the “Old Florida” aesthetic that is exemplified by the new Bonita Springs Library.

Proposals are due no later than April 14, 2020. Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter, The SWFL Report, to stay up to date on this exciting development!