Letter: Support the Imperial Landing project

Editor, The Banner:

On Wednesday, June 28, at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall, there will be a very important workshop and presentation by the Antaramian Developers for the Imperial Landing project. If you are opposed to this project, or undecided, we urge you to attend so that you can get the true facts, rather than relying on rumors, half-truths or outright lies. If you support the project, please contact all of our council members, and also attend to speak up and show your support.

The Antaramian Group is a well-established company that has successfully developed projects in Naples and Marco Island. The Imperial Landing project is not a carbon copy of either, it is a unique plan taking into consideration the river and the location of the land. There will not be high-rise condos, and the height will be 45 feet with parking under the buildings. All Imperial River frontage and westerly frontage along Leitner Creek will be accessible to the public; all impact fees will be paid at the same rate as developers pay elsewhere in the city; and it will comply with all city, county, state and federal regulations. The developers will construct and pay for all required stormwater and flood control — the city will not be required to pay or construct any support services off-site.

The is a win-win situation for the city and its residents, the developers will pay 100 percent of the money the city paid for the property, and will develop a beautiful project that we can all be proud of. Business owners who have been patiently waiting for years to see improvements will see their investments protected. Those who say there is no blight, prostitution or crime must have their eyes closed, or have selective vision. We need people living, dining and shopping there on a permanent basis, not transients. We envision this area to be a destination and not a thoroughfare passing through. Imperial Parkway will have to be completed before the project can be built.

Denial will set us back five years. Others planning new developments will change their plans. Our elected officials have an obligation to do what's best for all of the residents of the city and not what their personal desires are. This is much more important than a CRA. If that is a problem, do away with the CRA. Let's get this approved and begin the revitalization of the Old 41 area.

— Bob and Kathy McGrath / Bonita Springs