The City of Bonita Springs is looking for a smoother way for developers to build in the downtown area.

The current system is based on zoning codes, which makes it very difficult for investors to get their plans approved. We’ve seen this first-hand with the new mixed-use development coming to downtown Bonita. The partners on that development had been working with the city for about 5 years before final approval.

To counter this, Bonita Springs hired DPZ Design, a company who hopes to promote traffic in the downtown area.

The new code system, presented by DPZ Design, would be based upon building aesthetics, rather than the building’s specific use. This process is called “form-based code.”

According to this new plan, the tallest and most-used buildings would be on Old 41 Road, between Pennsylvania Avenue and Terry Street. Four stories would be the highest, and the parking lots would be hidden behind the buildings to encourage a more walkable downtown.

DPZ Design is the same company who designed 5th Avenue South in Naples in 1993. Bonita Springs, however, is sticking to a “Key West” style, rather that the Mediterranean look of 5th Avenue South.

Below are some of the renderings of downtown Bonita Springs, presented by DPZ Design at the September 25th City Council meeting.

So far, the new building codes are still just a proposal. DPZ Design will hold an ‘open-comment’ presentation at Bonita Springs City Hall later this year.

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