‘Flexibility’ changes for Seven Islands project move forward
Would allow for different mix of residential & non-residential uses
An ordinance that would amend the allowable development parameters for the Seven Islands project advanced to a final public hearing without discussion Wednesday.
The introduction for the amendment of the Seven Islands Sub-District read during Cape Coral’s City Council meeting allows for a different mix of residential and non-residential uses.
The second hearing for Ordinance 46-25 was set for Sept. 17.
The amendment would eliminate the cap “on non-residential square footage, eliminating the requirement for a mixed-use development while still requiring a mix of uses, eliminating language discussing Planned Development Projects, and eliminating the legal description for the Seven Islands area.”
The removal of the cap on non-residential would provide more flexibility, as well as more commercial space, according to documents posted with the Wednesday’s Council agenda.
If approved by city council, state approval would be required. The effective date would be 31 days after the state land planning agency notifies the city that the plan amendment package is complete.
According to the ordinance, “within the Seven Islands Sub-District, development shall be limited to a maximum of 995 dwelling units and an FAR of 1.0 for non-residential development, along with a hotel of no more than 240 rooms.”
The city acquired the Seven Island acreage — a series of seven undeveloped man-made “hammerhead” islands connected to land on the east side of the North Spreader Canal — as part of a $13.7 million foreclosure sale during the Great Recession’s real estate collapse.
Gulf Gateway Resort purchased the site from the city which, prior to selling the acreage, held public meetings and subsequently approved a concept plan for development.
The development’s original submitted master site plan showed a mix of condos, apartments and fish houses, with a total of 995 units planned. Those units were to occupy Islands 1 through 5, with Island 6 to include a hotel and resort lagoon, and Island 7 to include event halls, community center park, restaurant, and more.
Plans have since been modified with the renditions in December showing a majority of the components originally proposed included.
Changes included “a shuffling” of the marina slips and relocation of proposed commercial shops to the frontage along Old Burnt Store Road.
Island 6 still was to feature a hotel, as well as amenities including a restaurant, pool, and resort lagoon.
Island 7 would offer restaurant space along with community centers, according to the renditions in the permit application.
To reach MEGHAN BRADBURY, please email news@breezenewspapers.com