Bonita Estero Rail Trail Bond Passes: What’s Next for the BERT Project in Estero and Bonita Springs?
Key Take-Aways
- Funding Status: Voters approved a $35 million general-obligation bond referendum to secure necessary funding for the Bonita Estero Rail Trail corridor purchase.
- Project Scope: Acquisition of an 11.4-mile inactive rail corridor stretching from northern Collier County through downtown Bonita Springs to Estero Parkway.
- Total Acquisition Cost: The corridor purchase price is $60 million, supported by participating jurisdictions including Collier County (Conservation Collier), the City of Bonita Springs and the Village of Estero.
- Next Major Milestones: Completion of due diligence (appraisals, environmental assessments, title work) leading toward property closing, followed by track removal by Seminole Gulf Railway over up to two years.
- Construction Timeline: Physical construction is targeted to begin in approximately 2 to 3 years, with a 12 to 24-month build timeline and potential phased openings.
Published August 21, 2026 by Engage Estero
Written by
Mike Wasson
Communications Deputy Director & Education Coordinator
Voters have approved a $35 million bond issue to fund the acquisition and initial development of the Bonita Estero Rail Trail (BERT). This landmark decision secures the crucial funding required to acquire the 11.4-mile unused rail corridor, paving the way for a major regional multi-use trail.
Securing Funding for the 11.4-Mile Corridor
The full purchase price for the corridor is $60 million. With the passage of the bond, funding commitments are now aligned across participating jurisdictions. Financial backing includes Conservation Collier funding from Collier County, City of Bonita Springs, and a dedicated commitment from the Village of Estero.
Additionally, the 11.4-mile Phase 1 corridor was previously added to the Florida Forever Program, unlocking access to vital state-level conservation and recreation grant opportunities.
Map Courtesy of BERT - View interactive Map
Immediate Next Steps: Due Diligence and Closing
The project now transitions into the due diligence and closing phase:
- Finalizing Property Assessments: The Trust for Public Land is coordinating appraisals, title work, boundary surveys, and environmental site assessments.
- Closing Target: Parties are aiming to officially close on the property in October.
- Track Removal Window: Following the property closing, Seminole Gulf Railway will have up to two years to vacate the corridor and remove existing railroad tracks.
Engineering, Community Input, and Privacy Planning
While track removal takes place, local leaders, planners, and architects will initiate preliminary engineering studies and community outreach. Public feedback will focus on critical design elements:
Access Points & Connections
Establishing safe street crossings and bridging major thoroughfares, including Corkscrew Road in Estero.
Neighborhood Integration
Balancing trail accessibility with neighborhood privacy for residents along the corridor.
Community Amenities
Incorporating public art, rest areas, and localized identity features.
Physical construction is expected to begin after track removal is complete—approximately two to three years from now—with construction lasting 12 to 24 months. The trail may open in distinct phases as segments are completed.
A Connected Vision for Estero and Surrounding Communities
Championed locally by the Friends of BERT organization, the completed 11.4-mile trail will establish a continuous non-motorized pathway. The route extends from northern Collier County, through downtown Bonita Springs, past the Estero entertainment complex and Estero River Park, terminating at Estero Parkway.
Architect and BERT Board Member Nathalie White envisions the project as far more than a basic bike path. Her vision highlights:
Community Connectivity:
Direct links connecting residential neighborhoods, commercial hubs like Coconut Point, employment centers, parks, and downtown spaces.
Distinct Local Identities:
Design elements that reflect the unique character of the diverse communities and natural areas the trail traverses.
Neighbor-First Design:
A focus on privacy screens and thoughtful access points developed directly with adjacent property owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Bonita Estero Rail Trail (BERT)?
A: BERT is a planned 11.4-mile multi-use paved trail built along an inactive railroad corridor, connecting northern Collier County through downtown Bonita Springs and the Village of Estero.
Q: How will the $60 million acquisition cost be covered?
A: Funding comes from a combination of municipal sources, including the $35 million local bond issue, dedicated commitments from the Village of Estero, City of Bonita Springs, and Conservation Collier funding.
Q: When will construction start on the BERT trail?
A: Physical construction is projected to begin in approximately two to three years, following property closing and the removal of existing train tracks by Seminole Gulf Railway.
Q: Will the trail cross major roads like Corkscrew Road safely?
A: Yes. Engineering studies during the planning phase will evaluate bridging options and safe pedestrian crossing solutions for major intersections along the route.
Q. How do I participate in the planning process?
A. To be determined. There will still need to be additional funds raised for construction but several have said they will help. And detailed meetings will need to be set up for the various sections of the corridor. Engage Estero is committed to keep you informed as this process moves forward.
Sources for more information:
Bonita Estero Rail Trail: https://bonitaesterorailtrail.com
Florida Gulf Coast Trail: https://www.tpl.org/our-work/florida-gulf-coast-trail
Florida Forever: FDEP https://floridadep.gov/lands/environmental-services/content/florida-forever
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