Growth Articles

Southwest Florida Is Busy Again! So, Why Does the Southwest Florida Economy Still Feel Unsettled?

If you've driven down U.S. 41, tried to secure a dinner reservation during peak season, or navigated the bustling traffic around Coconut Point, RSW, or Corkscrew Road, it's hard to miss the signs: Southwest Florida is buzzing with activity again. Yet, despite the...
What are Your Priorities for Estero?

What are Your Priorities for Estero?

Please let us know your opinion of Engage Estero. At Engage Estero, our mission is simple: to protect and enhance our community’s quality of life. To do that effectively, we need to hear directly from you. As our last survey was completed in 2022, we must have an...

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An Economic Update for Greater Estero

An Economic Update for Greater Estero

By Terry Flanagan, Engage Estero’s Vice President, based on the data from The Regional Economic Research Institute (RERI) reports and information from the Lutgert College of Business at The Florida Gulf Coast University.   The big picture: growth, but in a more...

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A Summary of Major Construction Projects in Estero

A Summary of Major Construction Projects in Estero

Introduction When you return to Estero this winter, or you’re a full-time resident, you'll notice a lot of “dirt moving” and some big developments starting to take shape along US-41 and Via Coconut. Here’s an overview of the major projects, in everyday language you...

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The Latest Updates on Our Local Economy

The Latest Updates on Our Local Economy

December 2025 Update on the Local EconomyIntroduction If you’ve been feeling that our local economy is “ok, but not great,” the November 2025 Regional Economic Indicators support that view. Nationwide, the economy continues to grow, but at a slower pace than earlier...

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November RERI analysis

November RERI analysis

November RERI AnalysisHere’s the November RERI (Regional Economic Research Institute) story in plain language for our Engage Estero audience—what’s moving, what’s slowing, and what it means for residents. First, a quick reset on expectations: September is always the...

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Village of Estero’s 2025–2026 Budget

Village of Estero’s 2025–2026 Budget

Village of Estero’s 2025–2026 BudgetProtecting Property Values While Planning for Growth Engage Estero’s Perspective:   Every fall, the Village of Estero undertakes one of its most vital tasks: preparing, presenting, and approving the annual budget. For property...

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What Is Resilience? Why Should Greater Estero Be Concerned?

What Is Resilience? Why Should Greater Estero Be Concerned?

What Is Resilience? Why Should Greater Estero Be Concerned?What Is Being Done and What More Should Be Considered to Secure Our Future?   Introduction Compared to the 1980s, there are now twice as many days with temperatures over 50 °C and in more locations around...

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