There’s a mix of emotion throughout The Town of Fort Myers Beach, as an expansive resort nears closer to construction.

7 businesses recently received eviction notices from TPI Development, to be out by January 5th, 2020, so construction of Margaritaville can begin. Roughly half of these businesses will close completely, while others are relocating to other areas of the island.

Situated right outside Times Square on Fort Myers Beach, Margaritaville will contain 254 rooms, restaurants, shops, a water park and Estero Parkway pedestrian overpass bridge for easy beach access. The resort will require demolition of Helmerich Shopping Center, Pierview Hotel and Mermaid Lounge and Liquors. TPI Development will keep the Salty Crab as one of the resort restaurants.

Construction is expected to take about a year and a half, and Margaritaville should be open by late 2021.