CRA roundtable addresses business interests

Sep 10, 2025 By MEGHAN BRADBURY 3 min read

The possible relocation of Four Freedoms Park was discussed at a roundtable with businesses within the South Cape Community Redevelopment Agency district and came before the CRA governing board Wednesday.

There was no discussion of whether this will materialize past the business-input phase.

Cape Coral Michael Ilczyszyn, who also acts as the South Cape Community Redevelopment Agency executive director said, a round table discussion with business owners is held annually for one-on-one dialogue with those running a business in the district.

The roundtables provide an opportunity to share what is needed from government and whether a policy, or strategy needs to be changed to best align government actions with that interest.

There were two main concerns expressed – parking and relocation of Four Freedoms Park — as well as talk concerning a marketing pamphlet and maps branding certain areas of the district.

Cape Coral City Council, sitting as the CRA board of commissioners, discussed the issues raised.

Ilczyszyn said the relocation of Four Freedoms Park had strong support, as business members shared the view that it is tired and has run its life. He said there was also was discussion as to who was using the park – only use from kids.

Mayor John Gunter said although the park is used by the community, he does not believe it has to be exactly in its current location on the river off Tarpon Court overlooking Bimini Basin.

“For me, if that particular park had to be moved within the central location of that development, so we can utilize that waterfront property better, I am in favor of that personally,” Gunter said. “Do I want to eliminate the park?Absolutely not.”

Councilmember and CRA Commission Chair Bill Steinke said he does not agree the park should be removed, though it should be utilized better.

“It’s certainly an asset of the city that could be used better for every one of the citizens,” he said. “It’s a place to come and experience the South Cape.”

The need for parking in the district was also a major roundtable talking point,

“They strongly believe we need to make better use with structure parking and development of parking garages,” Ilczyszyn said. “There is no way for their business to succeed with the current status.”

Gunter said they have been talking about parking in the downtown area for eight years.

“It is a need, not a want,” he said.

Gunter said that maybe there should be some incentives out there for development of the public parking locations, adding he would like to see some vertical parking structures with some mixed use.

“I think we have to be proactive, instead of reactive,” he said.

Also discussed was having a QR code as a way for individuals to learn about the South Cape instead of maps.

Steinke said the code could be interactive by redirecting people to the business’s website.

To reach MEGHAN BRADBURY, please email news@breezenewspapers.com