The big retail store called WINDS at 150 Old San Carlos is planning to rebuild and reopen. The store, which sits at the corner of Old San Carlos and Estero Boulevard, was gutted by Hurricane Ian on September 28, 2023.
The property was recently appraised at $2.2 million and repairs of $271,185 fall well under FEMA’s 50% rule. If repair costs are more than 50% pf the appraised value of a structure, it can not be repaired.
The repairs include $119,000 for doors and windows, over $81,000 to replace the air conditioning system and $54,500 for new electrical and light fixtures. Thew new exterior windows, which were blown out in the storm, were replaced this month. A reopening date has not yet been announced.
The owner of WINDS has been submitting and resubmitting permit information to the town of Fort Myers Beach since April and has already paid $3,428 in permit fees.
I don’t believe the town wants us to rebuild. It’s difficult to get simple permits
The town says it has no money, one building 3400$ in permits.
This is great news! Congrats to everyone. One building at a time.
That’s wonderful. I’m sure people staying at Margaritaville when it opens , will appreciate a place to shop!