Contact: LaShaun Middlebrooks Collier, Deputy Director of Communications,
Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency: (239) 321-7100
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CRA announces live Request for Statement of Qualifications for Innovation Walk Master Plan
FORT MYERS, Fla. (Date, 2025) – The Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has launched Request for Statement of Qualifications (RSQ) for the Ft. Myers Walk of Innovation.
In the same spirit of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford sparking the genesis of innovation in Fort Myers, the Innovation Walk will reignite their legacy of human genius, melding the past with future-forward thinkers.
The RSQ and timeline is available at: https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/cityftmyers/projects/174333
The submission deadline is Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 2:00 pm.
Objectives include:
- Develop an urban design/placemaking master plan for the Innovation Walk, Centennial Park and adjacent areas inclusive of the entire riverfront (between the Edison and Caloosahatchee Bridges) to provide a comprehensive waterfront experience and culminate at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates
- Integrate augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) features into urban design
- Preserve and celebrate historical and cultural elements, including those of the Calusa people and the ‘Uncommon Friends’
- Create flexible, interactive spaces for events, education and innovation showcases
- Incorporate sustainable and resilient infrastructure including but not limited to reduction of heat island effect, and other environmental sensitive considerations
- Establish Fort Myers as a hub for innovation and creativity
- Incorporate nature (trees and landscape) as part of the design elements that need to be incorporated in a well thought out urban design plan
A map of the Innovation Walk can be found at: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=13h8nLmm1Q5qVLENj-FyzRdDRQYV7pNI&usp=sharing
“This project aligns with the CRA’s core mission of fostering innovation and revitalization in the downtown redevelopment district,” said Michele Hylton Terry, executive director of the Fort Myers CRA. “This strategic endeavor will enhance the downtown district’s vibrancy and appeal.”
The CRA Board of Commissioners has approved and allocated specific funding for this project, highlighting its significance and the boards commitment to transformative urban development.
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ABOUT THE FORT MYERS COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CRA)
Since 1984, the CRA has managed redevelopment trusts to revitalize blighted areas in the City of Fort Myers. This reinvestment can take the form of public infrastructure, residential and commercial grant programs, public arts, affordable housing development, safety initiatives and historic preservation.
If left under-resourced, parts of our city risk remaining overlooked, affecting community spirit, and slowing economic growth. This lack of redevelopment doesn’t just impact current residents—it also discourages potential new businesses and families from making our city their home. Imagine a city where every neighborhood is a beacon of growth and community spirit—a place where residents enjoy sustainable, thriving spaces and businesses benefit from a vibrant economic environment. This is the future we’re creating. The Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency was created in 1984 by the City of Fort Myers, Florida, under Florida Statute Chapter 163. The Fort Myers City Council members, sitting as the Community Redevelopment Agency Board of Commissioners, oversee the Agency’s programs and policies. The Fort Myers CRA office is located at 1400 Jackson Street in the historical downtown River District.
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