ESTERO, Fla — The Estero Planning and Zoning Board heard concerns about plans for a mixed use development on Corkscrew Road.
The proposal would include a frontage road linking Corkscrew Woodlands Boulevard to Estero Town Commons Place, next to the Lowes.
"I've been here about three months and I've seen 9 to 12 accidents, from cars trying to bust a u-turn, it's not pretty," said Theresa George who works at the Speedway on Corkscrew Road.
She's in favor of the frontage road in hopes it would ease traffic along Corkscrew Road.
But residents of Corkscrew Woodlands see it differently. They originally wanted the frontage road to help east traffic in front of their complex. But many are concerned about the accompanying development.
Stock Development wants to build a 350 unit apartment complex along with commercial space in the parcel of land around the road, which it owns.
"A couple living in a one or two bedroom likely has two cars, or three students sharing an apartment could have a car," said Darcie Morgan, who worries the project will create more traffic.
Stock Development is paying for the entire cost of the road and part of cost of the new traffic light that would be built next to the Lowes.
Stock executive Keith Gelder defended the project, saying there is a high demand for apartment living in Estero as more people move to the area.
"People want a maintenance free lifestyle, not everyone is up for HOA or condo living."
The board will continue the discussion at its February 19th meeting.
