Contact: LaShaun Middlebrooks Collier, Deputy Director of Communications,
Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency: (239) 321-7100
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Fort Myers resident’s donation increases CRA annual budget
Debora Gillen donates $431,732 for Common Ground Pocket Park
FORT MYERS, Fla. (DATE, 2024) – The Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) recently accepted a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Budget after a donation from Fort Myers resident Debora Gillen.
Gillen’s donation of $431,732 from Fidelity Charitable will be used to construct a Common Ground Pocket Park to be located in the downtown redevelopment area.
Gillen has inspired and championed the idea of a pocket park on First Street in the Downtown Redevelopment Area.
“The Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board of Commissioners would like to express our sincere gratitude for the incredibly generous donation of $431,732.00 towards the development of ‘Common Ground,’ Fort Myers’ first-ever pocket park,” said Michele Hylton- Terry, executive director of the Fort Myers CRA.”
Gillen’s donation will be instrumental in transforming the vacant lot at 2208 First Street into a vibrant public space for residents and visitors to enjoy. The CRA said they envision “Common Ground” as a welcoming green oasis in the heart of downtown, offering opportunities for relaxation, community gatherings and special events.
“We are particularly grateful for her continued support of the Downtown River District. Her previous funding for the planter box project has already significantly enhanced the area’s aesthetics, and ‘Common Ground’ will undoubtedly build upon that positive impact,” Hylton-Terry added.
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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