Protesters voice concern over development on Old 41 in Bonita Springs

Dozens of protesters are voicing their concern for proposed apartments along Old 41, just north of the Imperial River in Bonita Springs.

The group wants to alert the public about the proposal they’re taking matters into their own hands.

Their problem is, in March, the Barron Collier company presented their development proposal for two 4-story apartment buildings with over 120 units.

It is planning for city-owned land located across the Everglades Wonder Gardens on Old 41.

The land is zoned mixed-use.

Neighbors claim there’s been a lack of communication about the proposal and they say it will make the area congested and negatively impact the Imperial River and cause pollution.

The group believes there’s a better use for the public land, like a park.

There is a need for affordable housing but this isn’t it, they said.

“The apartments, ​at least from what we understood at the presentation from Barron Collier, are not geared to working people. This is upscale apartments with rents that are likely to be in the 25 to 23 hundred dollar range as I understand it. While there is a need for housing, this isn’t addressing that need,” Don Carney said.

The people fighting against the apartments would like some type of amenity that the public can enjoy.

The developer did not return WINK News’ request for comment.

The city said it will hold more meetings on the manner.