Community & Economic Development
From its inception, Engage Estero (formerly the ECCL), has been focused on public input on development and growth in order to protect the unique experience that is living in the greater Estero area. From the Estero Development Report to the Greater Estero Community Report, informing the public on what is planned, what is being built, and how to make your input known.
What We Are
An all-volunteer, nonpolitical, nonprofit community engagement association.
Why We Exist
To inform citizens of significant community issues and encourage citizen engagement to favorably impact the quality of life in greater Estero.
Original Research on Development
Development Summary
An extensive report on all residential, commercial, recreational and utility projects in and affecting the greater Estero area, updated twice yearly.
Why is Development so Fast and Infrastructure so Slow?
An in-depth original report on why are there so Many Developments Taking Place in Greater Estero? Why Can’t They be Stopped? and Why is the Road & Traffic Infrastructure Lagging Behind the Developments?
The State of Development
How to Make an Impact
Development Summary Update
East Corkscrew Updates
Community Planning Campaigns…
Appearance
Design Standards
Community Cohesiveness
→
Signage
Visibility
Temporary Signage
Code Enforcement
→
Impact
Traffic
Pedestrian Access
→
Development Process
Approval Boards
Public Input
→
Articles
Estero River Park at Village Council Workshop
The following comments were made in a presentation at to the Village of Estero Council on May 6, 2026. “The Village is advancing the strategic redevelopment of the ±32-acre publicly owned site within the Eco-Historical Hub located north of the river. This initiative...
Concerns Expressed by Residents Along East Corkscrew Road
Introduction Understanding East Corkscrew Residents: Key Insights from the 2026 Community Survey Residents of East Corkscrew Road in Estero are among the fastest-growing and most dynamic communities in Southwest Florida. A recent comprehensive Engage Estero survey...
Where do Residents think the Village of Estero should Prioritize Its Efforts?
The Engage Estero Survey (March 2026) Executive Summary The Engage Estero survey, conducted in March 2026, gathered responses from 664 residents to identify key priorities for its own organization, and the Village of Estero Management and Council, providing a solid...
Why is our infrastructure lagging behind residential and commercial development?
Introduction Many planners and researchers would say that Southwest Florida (SWFL) shows a larger-than-average disconnect between private development and public infrastructure than many other U.S. regions. But it's not unique; it's an extreme version of a broader...
Important Update from the East Corkscrew Alliance and Engage Estero
Introduction. February was a busy month, with many meetings among the East Corkscrew Alliance (ECA), Engage Estero, and senior officials at the county and local government levels. Those involved included County Manager Dave Harner, Assistant County Manager Christine...
What the Latest Regional Economic Research Institute Report Reveals About Estero and Southwest Florida
What the Latest Regional Economic Research Institute Report Reveals About Estero and Southwest FloridaEach month, the Regional Economic Research Institute (RERI) at Florida Gulf Coast University publishes a report on our local economy. The August 2025 edition provides...
Key Economic Trends in Southwest Florida
Key Economic Trends in Southwest FloridaThe following summary from Engage Estero is based on the May 2025 Regional Economic Indicators report from Florida Gulf Coast University's Regional Economic Research Institute. The report highlights several economic trends in...
Discover Estero’s Exciting Transformation: The Village Sports Park is Coming to Elevate Your Lifestyle!
Let’s face it—if you live in Estero, life centers around the sun, water, and that irresistible resort vibe that draws us in. Whether you’re a full-time...
An Important Update on the Septic to Mains Sewer Conversion for Estero Residents
Introduction On August 28th, a public meeting updated the Estero Village Utilities Expansion Program (UEP). Steve Sarkozy, the Village Manager, and David Willems, the Village Public Works Director, presented. The project was initiated in 2021 following the...
Estero 2024 Growth of Estero’s Population and Real Estate
Engage Estero recently finalized our Q3 September 2024 Greater Estero Community Report. This report covers Economic Indicators and a Comprehensive Guide to Developments in the City. has seen a significant population surge in the last decade, largely driven by the...
Workforce Housing The Local and State Actions That Need to be Implemented
The following issues have been addressed in the three previous articles Engage Estero prepared on Workforce Housing. Part 1: Understanding the Workforce Housing Crisis & Why It Affects All of Us. Part 2: Addressing the Workforce Housing Crisis in Southern Lee...
The Economic and Social Impact of Workforce Housing Shortages Part 3
The lack of affordable workforce housing in southern Lee County has significantly impacted our local economy and social fabric. Businesses feel the strain, community services are stretched thin, and residents face decreased quality of life. We must address this...
Get Involved
Find Your Representatives
Contact information for local, state and national legislators.
Volunteer
Engage Estero is made up entirely of volunteer residents, businesspeople, and you!
Invest
Your contributions protect the voice of Estero residents and enable action before it's too late!