Board recommends approval for rezoning Costco site at 10451 Metro Parkway

The City of Fort Myers Planning Board convened on March 5, 2025, to discuss a significant rezoning request for a parcel of land located at 10451 Metro Parkway. The meeting focused on the proposal to rezone approximately 36.74 acres from mixed-use commercial intensive and planned unit development to commercial general zoning designation, aligning with the city’s comprehensive plan and land development code.

The board began with a motion to recommend approval of the rezoning request, which was seconded and brought to a vote. However, discussions revealed concerns among board members regarding the implications of the rezoning. One member expressed skepticism about the adequacy of the traffic study related to the proposed changes, emphasizing the importance of understanding how the property would be utilized and the potential impact on local traffic patterns.

The member highlighted the necessity of reviewing a site plan to ensure that the development would be appropriate and beneficial for the area, despite expressing confidence in the expertise of the proposed developer, Costco. The board member's apprehension centered on the lack of a thorough analysis by the city, which raised questions about the readiness of the project for approval.

Following the discussions, the board proceeded to a roll call vote on the motion. The outcome of the vote and any subsequent actions were not detailed in the transcript. The meeting underscored the board's commitment to careful consideration of zoning changes and their potential effects on the community. Further steps will likely involve continued discussions and evaluations of the proposed development.