A proposal for a 300-slip marina in the Fort Myers Beach area, Florida, United States, specifically within the state’s oldest aquatic preserve, has garnered attention and criticism from various stakeholders. The controversial project, supported by San Carlos Island waterfront property owners, State Representative Adam Botana, and developers Bay Harbor Marina Village LLC and Marco Brummand, aims to transform the traditional shrimp dock area into a high-rise development featuring large vessel dockage and boat storage.

Impact on Shrimp Industry

One of the primary concerns raised by opponents of the project is its potential impact on the shrimp industry. Historically, the area has been crucial for docking activities related to the shrimp trade, and the proposed redevelopment threatens to disrupt this longstanding connection.

Moreover, environmentalists and wildlife advocates express worry about the dredging of a vital sandbar within the Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve. They argue that such alterations could harm bird habitats.

A Controversial Legislative Move

State Representative Adam Botana has introduced House Bill 957 in support of the marina development, seeking to remove Matanzas Pass from the aquatic preserve. The bill, affecting approximately 40 acres, would allow previously prohibited activities like dredging, aiming to facilitate redevelopment along the San Carlos Island shoreline. Botana contends that the area was never intended to be part of the aquatic preserve, impeding the development of the working waterfront.

Opposition and Regulatory Hurdles

Despite the push for redevelopment predating the destruction caused by Hurricane Ian in 2022, opponents argue that the proposed changes raise significant environmental concerns. The project would likely require approvals from regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, adding a layer of complexity to the controversial endeavor.