Fort Myers is taking a significant step toward reimagining the future of the Edison Mall, a once-dominant retail center now facing the challenges of a changing commercial landscape. On Wednesday, the Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) approved a $100,000 agreement with Bowman Consulting Group to conduct a comprehensive air rights study for the property. This study, funded by the Cleveland Avenue Trust Fund, aims to unlock the potential for a mixed-employ redevelopment that could revitalize a key corridor of the city.
The move is directly tied to the Cleveland Avenue 2025 Plan Update, a long-term vision for the area that emphasizes creating a more vibrant, walkable, and economically diverse community. The Edison Mall, located at 4125 Cleveland Avenue, has seen declining foot traffic in recent years, mirroring a national trend affecting traditional enclosed malls. Exploring air rights – the ability to build structures above existing infrastructure – offers a potential solution to maximize land use and introduce new opportunities for housing, retail, and entertainment.
Understanding the Air Rights Study
The air rights study won’t be a quick process. Bowman Consulting Group, in collaboration with MHK Architecture, will spend the coming months analyzing various redevelopment scenarios. According to the agreement, the study will include detailed “massing diagrams,” which visually represent potential building heights and footprints, as well as “development envelopes” defining the allowable building areas. Crucially, the consultants will also draft a “model ordinance” related to air rights specifically for the Edison Mall property, providing a legal framework for future development. This ordinance will be vital for developers considering investing in the site.
MHK Architecture brings significant experience to the project, having played a key role in the successful redevelopment of the Coastland Center Mall in Naples, Florida. That project transformed a struggling mall into a more dynamic, open-air destination with a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options. The firm’s expertise will be invaluable in assessing the feasibility and potential of similar strategies for the Edison Mall.
The Cleveland Avenue Corridor and the 2025 Plan
The Edison Mall isn’t being considered in isolation. It’s a central piece of the broader Cleveland Avenue 2025 Plan, which envisions a complete overhaul of the corridor. The plan, available on the City of Fort Myers website, details a vision for a more pedestrian-friendly environment, increased density, and a greater mix of land uses. The CRA believes that redeveloping the Edison Mall is critical to achieving these goals.
“The Cleveland Avenue corridor is a vital part of our city’s identity,” said CRA Executive Director Jennifer Portman in a statement following the vote. “This air rights study is a crucial step in unlocking the potential of the Edison Mall and creating a destination that serves the needs of our residents and visitors.”
What Does ‘Air Rights’ Actually Mean?
Air rights are essentially the property rights to the space above a piece of land. Typically, they are associated with transportation infrastructure – like highways or railways – but can also apply to existing buildings. Selling or transferring air rights allows a property owner to capitalize on unused space, while a developer can gain access to valuable building locations. The process is often complex, requiring careful consideration of zoning regulations, structural engineering, and legal agreements.
In the case of the Edison Mall, the study will determine the extent to which air rights can be utilized to build new structures above the existing mall footprint, potentially creating residential towers, office buildings, or other mixed-use developments. This could significantly increase the density of the area and generate new economic activity.
Stakeholders and Potential Impacts
The redevelopment of the Edison Mall will have far-reaching implications for a variety of stakeholders. Local residents will benefit from new housing options and improved amenities. Businesses along Cleveland Avenue could notice increased foot traffic and economic opportunities. Property owners in the area will likely experience increased property values. However, the project also raises potential concerns about traffic congestion, parking availability, and the impact on existing neighborhoods.
The CRA has emphasized the importance of community engagement throughout the redevelopment process. Public hearings and workshops will be held to gather input from residents and businesses, ensuring that the final plan reflects the needs and priorities of the community. The CRA website will serve as a central hub for information and updates on the project.
The next step in the process is the completion of the air rights study, which is expected to take approximately six to nine months. Once the study is finalized, the CRA will review the findings and start developing a detailed redevelopment plan for the Edison Mall. The plan will then be subject to further review and approval by the City Council.
This is a developing story. Stay informed about the future of the Edison Mall and the Cleveland Avenue corridor by visiting the City of Fort Myers website and attending upcoming public meetings. The potential for transformation is significant, and the coming months will be crucial in shaping the future of this important part of the city.
Do you have thoughts on the future of the Edison Mall? Share your comments below, and let us understand what you’d like to see in a redeveloped Cleveland Avenue corridor.
