If you’ve driven through the Old 41 corridor lately, you’ve likely noticed all the construction – but not necessarily what’s behind it. And if it’s been a while since your last trip downtown, there’s a lot to catch up on. From the brand-new Bonita Springs Elementary School to an Old Florida–inspired mojito bar getting ready to open its doors, here’s your complete Downtown Bonita Springs construction update.
Reference the map above for each project’s location!
1. Ceremony Brewing Plaza Renovtions
Estimated Completion: Summer 2026
Construction is moving forward at Ceremony Brewing Plaza, where renovation plans are now fully in progress. One of the most noticeable changes is the complete overhaul of the adjacent multi-tenant building, formerly home to The Motherload and several other businesses. The space has been fully vacated and gutted, pointing to a full-scale renovation rather than a light refresh.
At the same time, crews have been focused on extensive sitework across the property, including major stormwater and drainage improvements. Much of that groundwork now appears to be nearing completion, setting the stage for new pavement, layout enhancements, and structural improvements to the plaza itself.
While the overall vision for the property remains consistent with earlier plans, the level of work underway reflects a significant reinvestment into the site that will reshape the look and functionality of this popular downtown gathering spot!
Ceremony Brewing is still open during these renovations and would appreciate your business more than ever!
2. Tennessee St. Shipping Container Project
Estimated Completion: Early 2027
Next to Ceremony Brewing, a unique shipping container development planned just off Old 41 is beginning to take shape as the site has now been cleared and early groundwork is getting underway. First introduced as a creative mixed-use concept designed for a challenging triangular parcel, the project aims to bring an open-air, highly walkable destination built from repurposed shipping containers.
While still in its early stages, this marks a visible step forward for one of downtown’s more innovative projects. As groundwork progresses, the site is starting its transformation into what’s expected to become a distinctive addition to Bonita Springs’ growing lineup of locally driven, experience-focused spaces
3. Bonita Springs Elementary School
Estimated Completion: August 2027
Work continues full steam ahead at Bonita Springs Elementary School, where the new campus has now been topped off and crews are actively finishing interior build‑outs while also installing the brick façade that will define the school’s exterior.
This long‑anticipated renovation and rebuild project, driven by structural and safety needs for the historic 1921 campus, combines modern educational facilities with design elements that honor the school’s legacy. As part of the approved plans, a replica of the original historic front façade will greet students and visitors, preserving a piece of Bonita’s heritage even as the interior is redesigned for today’s needs.
According to the Lee County School District and city partners, the updated campus, complete with new classrooms, administrative spaces, a modern media center, and an appropriately sized cafeteria, is scheduled to be completed in time for the start of the 2027‑28 school year.
With vertical construction and exterior finishes well underway, the project is transitioning from structural work to the detailed finishes that will bring the new school to life for students in fall 2027.
4. Project Telephone
Estimated Completion: Mid 2027
Project Telephone is now rising in Downtown Bonita Springs as construction has moved beyond site work and crews are building up the new restaurant structures. Originally introduced by Kyle Moran of Moran & Kennedy, the project transforms two underutilized parcels along Old 41 – including the historic, vacant telephone building – into thoughtfully designed dining destinations that support walkability and local culture.
The development includes two complementary restaurant opportunities:
- North Site: An expansion of the existing structure next to Downtown Coffee & Wine Bar, offering approximately ~4,900 sq ft of indoor and outdoor dining that integrates into the streetscape.
- South Site: A new‑build restaurant space of just under ~4,000 sq ft with outdoor seating, designed to attract a range of culinary concepts.
With vertical construction underway, Project Telephone marks a major milestone in Bonita’s evolving dining and entertainment corridor — adding more energy and options to the heart of downtown and reinforcing the city’s placemaking momentum.
5. Honeyhole Downtown
Estimated Completion: Mid 2027
Progress is officially underway at HoneyHole Downtown, where the site has now been cleared and groundwork has begun. First announced earlier this year, the project is envisioned as a uniquely immersive dining and entertainment destination – one that leans into an “Old Florida” feel while delivering a more enclosed, upscale experience compared to its sister concept, Sugarshack Downtown.
Designed with intention around the site’s natural features, including a towering, century-old mahogany tree, HoneyHole aims to blend development with preservation, creating a space that feels both organic and discoverable. From the street, the project is expected to feel intimate and approachable, while inside, it will offer the scale needed to support live music, dining, and a dynamic social atmosphere.
With early construction now in motion, HoneyHole marks another major step in the ongoing transformation of Downtown Bonita Springs into a walkable, experience-driven destination.
6. Banyan Tree Square Splash Pad
Estimated Completion: Winter 2026
Construction has officially begun at Banyan Tree Square, where the long-planned splash pad project is now moving from concept to reality. The former sheriff substation on the site has been fully demolished, clearing the way for new development, and crews have begun early groundwork across the parcel.
This marks a major step forward for the project, which will transform the space into a vibrant, family-friendly destination across from Riverside Park. Plans for the site include an interactive splash pad, shaded seating areas, upgraded landscaping, lighting features, and improved walkability throughout the space.
With site prep now underway and construction activity ramping up, Banyan Tree Square is beginning its transition into one of Downtown Bonita Springs’ most anticipated public spaces. The project is expected to be completed later this year.
7. Riverside Park Renovations
Estimated Completion: Winter 2026
*Will reopen temporarily for Star Spangled Bonita on July 4th*
Riverside Park in Downtown Bonita Springs has officially closed temporarily as a major renovation project gets underway, with construction fencing now up and crews working on‑site.
The improvements — based on plans approved by city council following earlier design work — are intended to enhance the park’s functionality for daily use and community events. When complete (expected by winter 2026), the revitalized Riverside Park will feature a redesigned event lawn with synthetic turf better suited for heavy foot traffic, an improved and permanent performance stage and bandshell, expanded paved seating, shaded gathering areas, wider walkways for vendor and event flow, enhanced veteran memorial spaces, and additional bike parking and connectivity to nearby downtown assets.
8. Hide.A.Wai
Hideawai Mojito Bar
A fresh new addition is coming to Old 41 in Downtown Bonita Springs: Hideawai, a mojito‑focused bar from the team behind Alligator Bay Distillery. Located across from Benson’s Grocery, Hideawai promises to bring tropical vibes, craft cocktails, and a lively social spot right in the heart of downtown.
Details on the menu, design, and opening date are still emerging, but readers can expect a unique take on classic mojitos and a fun, walkable destination for locals and visitors alike. Sign up for the SWFL.life newsletter to get the latest updates, photos, and insider details as soon as they’re released!
9. Imperial 41
Estimated Completion Date: 2027
Work continues to advance at Imperial 41, the long‑anticipated mixed‑use development in Downtown Bonita Springs. After breaking ground late last year, crews have been completing groundwork and are now preparing to go vertical on the project’s two buildings — a key milestone as this site begins to take shape after years of planning and partnership.
Imperial 41 — a collaborative effort between Barron Collier Companies and CAPREIT in partnership with the City of Bonita Springs — will transform a long‑vacant parcel across the Imperial River into a vibrant riverfront destination. Once complete, the development will include about 19,000 sq ft of commercial space featuring restaurants, shops, and offices, with modern residential units above and a second fully residential building across the river.
Thoughtfully designed public amenities — including parks, riverfront access, bike racks, and other gathering spaces — are also part of the plan, reflecting a vision of enhanced walkability and community connection in the heart of downtown.
Construction is on track for vertical work to continue through 2026, with full completion and openings expected in 2027.
We’ve been talking about the potential of Downtown Bonita Springs since the very beginning – long before most people saw what it could become. When we became Realtors nearly a decade ago, we believed in this area so much that we started this blog to keep others informed and excited about what was coming. Since then, we’ve built a beautiful life here in Bonita and have had the privilege of helping so many others do the same. This year alone, we’ve sold $6.1 million with another $3.1 million currently under contract, and we’ve truly become experts in the downtown market. If you’ve been thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Bonita Springs -especially downtown-we’d love to help you be part of what’s happening here.
