Good Things Happening in Estero: Key Updates on Local Parks, Taxes, Traffic Safety & Recreation
Key Take-Aways
- Lowest Property Tax in Florida: The Village of Estero currently holds the lowest property tax rate in both Lee County and the entire State of Florida.
- Estero RiverPark Soft Opening: The park is currently open Friday through Sunday, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Visitors must park in the new north-side lot off County Road and cross via the pedestrian bridge.
- Bonita Estero Rail Trail (BERT) Funding Complete: With Bonita Springs voters passing a $35M bond referendum and Estero allocating $19M, full municipal funding is secured to acquire the 11.4-mile inactive Seminole Gulf Railway line.
- New Golf Driving Range Coming: A new Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement will return a driving range facility to the Estero Sports and Recreation Center area within the next 12 months.
- Major Road & Safety Upgrades: Roundabouts at West Coconut/Walden Drive and west of US-41 on Williams Road at the access road behind Walgreens. They are targeted for completion by spring 2027. Additionally, protected left-turn signals are now active at US-41 and Williams Road.
Published October 22, 2026 by Engage Estero
Written by
Allan Bowditch
President
It is human nature to view local issues negatively, especially when they directly affect our day-to-day lives in Estero. There is no denying that many residents feel frustrated by:
- FDOT’s response to residents’ and Engage Estero’s demands for noise mitigation along the ongoing road widening project through Estero.
- Traffic remediation delays following the findings of the 2024 Traffic Survey.
- Pervasive development taking place across our community.
However, let’s step back for a moment, give credit where credit is due, and recognize the positive, proactive steps being taken by the Village of Estero’s management team and Village Councilors.
Estero Property Tax: Lowest in Florida
It’s a remarkable fact: The Village of Estero’s property tax rate is not only the lowest in Lee County—it is the lowest in the entire State of Florida!
Sports and Recreation Enhancements in Estero
Estero RiverPark Now Open (Soft Opening)
Estero RiverPark has officially begun its "soft opening" phase. If you plan to visit, please keep the following operational details in mind:
- Operating Hours: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (As of October 2026)
- Management: The Estero Forever Foundation is leading park activities and operations during this initial period.
- Parking Access: Visitors must use the new parking lot located on the north side of the river. Turn east onto County Road (just north of Estero River Outfitters where the fire station is located). Follow the road to the end and turn right into the lot. A small sign directs traffic, and limited shaded parking spaces are available.
- Park Access: From the parking lot, walk across the Estero River using the dedicated pedestrian bridge.
Bonita Estero Rail Trail (BERT) Progress
The Village of Estero has earmarked $19 million in its Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for the northern section of the rail corridor. On August 18th, Bonita Springs voters passed a crucial bond referendum covering the city’s $35 million share. This major milestone completes the full municipal funding pool required to acquire the 11.4-mile inactive Seminole Gulf Railway corridor.
The Route for BERT:
- The trail extends north to the intersection with Estero Parkway.
- At Estero Parkway, cyclists and pedestrians can route either left to US-41 or right to Ben Hill Griffin Parkway, heading north in both scenarios.
- Both pathways connect directly to Alico Road, allowing trail users to join the Yarbrough Trail system leading toward Sarasota and beyond.
Mark Your Calendars: Engage Estero is hosting a special community meeting detailing these major rail trail developments on January 29, 2027, at 10:00 a.m. at the Estero Recreation Center.
New Driving Range at Estero Sports and Recreation Center
In addition to the High Five Public-Private Partnership (PPP), local golfers will be delighted to learn that another PPP agreement has been finalized to construct a dedicated driving range.
The former practice range on Williams Road was extremely popular, and those who used it—along with players seeking local practice facilities—will be thrilled by this addition. Project completion is anticipated within the next 12 months.
Major Infrastructure and Road Improvements
Roundabout at West Coconut Road and Walden Drive
Construction is actively underway on the functional two-lane roundabout at West Coconut Road and Walden Drive near the Woodfield Development.
- Design Features: One lane dedicated to northbound traffic and one to southbound traffic, accompanied by updated street lighting, dedicated irrigation networks, and extensive perimeter landscaping.
- Land Acquisition: The Village acquired additional land to ensure the roundabout comfortably accommodates traffic requirements.
- Timeline: Construction is expected to take up to 6 months, targeting completion between late February and March 2027.
Roundabout west of US-41 on Williams Road
Work on the roundabout on Williams Road west of the Intersection with US-41 will commence shortly. The Village utilized eminent domain in conjunction with Fountain Lakes to acquire the extra land required for construction. Completion is projected for March 2027.
Traffic Safety Upgrade at US-41 and Williams Road
Working alongside Lee County Commissioner David Mulicka, traffic signals at US-41 and Williams Road were upgraded to a "protected" left-turn configuration for both northbound and southbound traffic. This upgrade eliminates dangerous left turns across oncoming lanes. Engage Estero aggressively advocated for this change following a tragic accident at the intersection two years ago and extends its gratitude to Commissioner Mulicka for his decisive leadership.
Yes—good things can and do happen in Estero!
Frequently Asked Questions About Estero Infrastructure & Community Updates
Q: What are the current operating hours and parking details for the new Estero RiverPark?
A: Estero RiverPark is currently operating under a soft opening on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Parking is located in the new lot on the north side of the river off County Road (just north of Estero River Outfitters). Visitors can access the park by crossing the river via the pedestrian bridge.
Q: How is the Bonita Estero Rail Trail (BERT) being funded?
A: Funding is fully secured through a joint municipal effort. The Village of Estero allocated $19 million in its Capital Improvement Plan, and Bonita Springs voters approved a $35 million bond referendum on August 18th to complete the acquisition of the 11.4-mile inactive Seminole Gulf Railway section.
Q: When will the new roundabouts in Estero be completed?
A: Construction for both roundabouts are slated for completion by late February or March 2027.
Q: Does the Village of Estero have low property taxes compared to other areas in Florida?
A: Yes! The Village of Estero currently holds the lowest property tax rate in Lee County and the lowest municipal property tax rate in the entire State of Florida.
About Engage Estero:
Engage Estero is a nonpartisan organization that provides extensive, trusted, researched data, presents balanced community information, encourages informed civic participation, and advocates for change when necessary. We take clear positions on issues that could adversely affect the community’s future quality of life in Greater Estero. Engage Estero is your go-to source for vital community news.
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At Engage Estero, we believe in the power of community. As a nonpartisan, nonpolitical, nonprofit, we conduct evidence-based research to provide unbiased information about local issues, helping you improve your quality of life.