The City of Fort Myers is one step closer to bringing the Innovation Walk to life.
Following the submission of responses to Statement of Qualifications (RSQ 25-081) and a committee vote held on Friday, November 7, 2025, a group of leading design and planning firms has been shortlisted to advance to the next phase of selection. These teams will present their concepts for the Fort Myers Innovation Walk Master Plan on Monday, November 24, 2025, in City Council Chambers.
Innovation Walk will be a signature experience in the heart of Fort Myers — a place where our history of invention and creativity meets immersive public art, technology, and walkable urban design. The master plan will guide how we connect people to the River District, nearby neighborhoods, and one another through storytelling, placemaking, and forward-thinking infrastructure.
Presentation Day Format
Each shortlisted firm will:
- Have 40 minutes to present its qualifications, approach, and vision for the Innovation Walk Master Plan
- Participate in up to 15 minutes of questions from the selection committee
- Present in person in Fort Myers City Council Chambers
- Contribute to a full day of learning, comparison, and evaluation as the City works to identify the best partner for this transformational project
A brief lunch break is scheduled mid-day.
November 24, 2025 – Presentation Schedule
Fort Myers Innovation Walk Master Plan – RSQ 25-081
Location: Council Chambers, City of Fort Myers
8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
Studio for Architecture, Inc.
9:10 – 10:10 a.m.
Sasaki Associates
10:20 – 11:20 a.m.
Stantec
11:20 – 11:50 a.m.
Lunch Break
11:50 a.m. – 12:50 p.m.
Claire Weisz Architects (WXY Studio)
1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Brooks + Scarpa
2:10 – 3:10 p.m.
Vanasse Hangen Brustlin (VHB)
3:20 – 4:20 p.m.
Perkins&Will
What Happens Next
Following the presentations, the selection committee will evaluate each team based on their experience, design approach, community engagement philosophy, and ability to deliver a bold, implementable master plan. The committee’s recommendation will help guide the City in choosing a firm to lead the Innovation Walk Master Plan effort.
As Innovation Walk moves from idea to implementation, it has the potential to:
- Celebrate Fort Myers’ legacy of innovation and creativity
Strengthen connections between neighborhoods, businesses, and the riverfront - Enhance walkability, safety, and public space
- Attract residents, visitors, and investment to the area
The November 24 presentations mark a major milestone in that journey, showcasing how some of the most respected firms in planning, urban design, and architecture would help Fort Myers shape its next chapter of innovation.