ABOUT THE PROJECT

Walk the Path of Innovation

THE INNOVATION WALK

Project Progress: A concept plan for the Fort Myers Innovation Walk is underway.

The Innovation Walk will primarily run along West First Street from Centennial Park to the Ford and Edison Winter Estates. This interactive and exciting walk will celebrate human genius, innovation, and Fort Myers’ history in one cohesive vision, creating a timeless and flexible destination that attracts residents and visitors alike and boosts economic growth.

STEP ONTO THE INNOVATION WALK

Project Goals

  • Build connectivity in the River District from Centennial Park to the Ford and Edison Winter Estates, primarily along West First Street.
  • Create sustainable, community-focused opportunities for growth, economy, and development.
  • Strengthen Fort Myers’ waterfront and identity as a place of innovation, creativity, and climate resilience.
View Current Study Area

Click on image to enlarge.

Current Study Area of The Innovation Walk

Multiple opportunities for engagement and public input will take place throughout the project process, including pop-ups at local events. A digital survey is open now through August 27.

Take the Survey

Public Events

  • February 6: Artfest Fort Myers
  • August 21: Music Walk Pop-Up 6:00 – 8:00 PM
    (Location of Booth TBD)
  • August 27: Public Meeting 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM (Collaboratory)

EVENT QUESTIONS?

Please contact Carolyn Usher at cusher@cella.cc for additional questions.

Anticipated Project Schedule

PHASE 1

Design Research, Conditions Analysis, and Early Engagement
Spring 2026

PHASE 2

Design Concepting and Public Engagement
Summer 2026

PHASE 3

Design Revisions Action Plan
Fall 2026

OCTOBER 2026 | PUBLIC MEETING ON PRIORITIES

  • Phase 4: Conceptual Planning Complete – November 2026
  • Phase 5: Schematic Design Begins – November 2026 onward

THE INNOVATION WALK

Project Design Team

LEADERSHIP

Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA)

The lead funding organization behind The Innovation Walk, as a part of their larger mission to revitalize the Fort Myers through sustainable development and cultural enrichment.

CONCEPTUAL ARCHITECTURE & PROJECT MANAGEMENT

LaShaun Middlebrooks Collier

Project manager and creative strategist developing the Innovation Walk’s conceptual framework, guiding project direction.

PLANNING

Perkins&Will

An interdisciplinary design firm leading the concept plan, specializing in urban design and landscape architecture.

ENGAGEMENT

Carolyn Usher

Local community engagement consultant supporting the alignment of project outcomes and community voice.

IMMERSION

Storyland Studios

Storytelling design team, specializing in interactive exhibitions, immersive experience, and placemaking.

RESILIENCE

Kimley-Horn

Engineering firm guiding infrastructure, stormwater, and transportation.

HISTORY & CULTURE

Theresa Schober

Local historian and archaeologist, specializing in coastal Fort Myers and Indigenous history.

ECONOMICS

Miasto

Market analysis and economic development consultant.

Other Partners

The Innovation Walk is grateful for the visionary support of  our esteemed collaborators. Their commitment to fostering creativity and celebrating human ingenuity is helping to transform the Fort Myers riverfront into a landmark destination.