The Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board of Commissioners has approved the selection of Perkins&Will as the design firm for the Fort Myers Innovation Walk Master Plan, marking a major milestone in the transformation of the Downtown Redevelopment Area.
The decision follows a competitive Request for Statements of Qualifications (RSQ 25-081), launched in partnership with the City’s Procurement Division. Seven nationally recognized firms were shortlisted and presented their qualifications on November 24, 2025, in Council Chambers. After thorough scoring and review, Perkins & Will emerged as the highest-ranked and most qualified firm.
Reigniting a Legacy of Innovation
Inspired by Fort Myers’ history of ingenuity, shaped by the Calusa, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and generations of visionary thinkers, the Innovation Walk will create a signature, walkable waterfront corridor that blends the city’s historic identity with future-forward design.
“The Innovation Walk will be a defining experience for residents and visitors,” said Michele Hylton-Terry, Executive Director of the Fort Myers CRA. “Perkins&Will brings the multidisciplinary expertise needed to honor our past while designing a public realm that sparks creativity, supports our local economy, and elevates the vibrancy of downtown.”
A Master Plan to Shape the Waterfront’s Future
The Innovation Walk Master Plan will encompass Centennial Park, the riverfront from the Edison Bridge to the Caloosahatchee Bridge, and the connection leading to the Edison & Ford Winter Estates. Key objectives include:
- Developing a cohesive placemaking and urban design vision for the waterfront
- Integrating augmented reality and virtual reality to enhance storytelling and visitor experiences
- Preserving and uplifting cultural and historical narratives, including Calusa heritage and the legacy of the Uncommon Friends
- Creating interactive public spaces for education, events, performance, and innovation showcases
- Advancing sustainable and resilient design strategies, including climate-sensitive infrastructure and heat-island reduction
- Strengthening Fort Myers’ identity as a regional hub for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship
- Incorporating shade, nature, and thoughtful landscape elements to enhance comfort and walkability
Perkins&Will’s proposal emphasized public-realm activation, technological integration, deep community engagement, and a holistic placemaking approach—qualities that align strongly with the CRA’s vision and statutory redevelopment goals.
A Strategic Investment in the Downtown Redevelopment Area
The project is funded through the Downtown Trust Fund with a budget allocation of $500,000 for fiscal year 2025–2026. The effort supports the 2025 Downtown Redevelopment Area Plan Update and statutory directives under F.S. 163.360 for implementing community redevelopment plans that revitalize and strengthen urban districts.
“The Board’s approval underscores a commitment to meaningful, transformative redevelopment,” said Hylton-Terry. “This master plan will guide the next era of innovation along our waterfront.”
Next Steps
Contract negotiations with Perkins&Will will begin immediately following Board approval. The master planning process is anticipated to launch in early 2026 and will include opportunities for public input and stakeholder engagement.
As the Innovation Walk takes shape, the CRA will continue sharing updates, visuals, and community engagement opportunities on its website and communication channels.
View Presentation: Fort Myers Innovation Walk Interview Perkins&Will