WELCOME TO CAPE CORAL    Welcome to Paradise! That’s what we who call Cape Coral home call our beautiful city.  This is why our city and local chamber of commerce have coined the phrase, “It’s Just a Paradise” You can see it everywhere you go – from our magnificent sunsets, fantastic restaurants, nature parks, 400 miles of canals and tropical weather.

      Just about all of us who live here in Cape Coral were once visitors, too.  Just a short stay in our beautiful city and county will show you why we, along with 10,000 others yearly, chose to call Cape Coral home. Cape Coral is ranked among some of the safest cities in the country, and we have been named the fifth fastest growing city in the United States.

     Why have we grown so fast?  Our community is large in size but with a small town feel, complete with hometown activities and festivals.

     We are home to more that 3,200 local businesses, we have good schools, including a city-operated charter system, a great climate, and most of all, our waterfront lifestyle.

     Cape Coral is a large peninsula just west of Fort Myers on the Gulf of Mexico.  Being home to more than 400 miles of canals—more that the city of Venice – you can well imagine that we love the water and related amenities.  We have been long known as a boater’s and fisherman’s paradise.  You will not come across many canal front properties that do not have a boat out back.  We also are home to the Cape Coral Yacht Club, our very own marina right on the Caloosahatche River.

     While here, please don’t forget to take part in the many festivals that attract so many of our residents and visitors alike.  A complete list of these events can be found under our calendar of events.  The Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral also is a valuable tool to find the where’s and when’s of our magnificent city.  It is located at 2051 Cape Coral Pkwy., right before the Cape Coral Bridge.

Four Mile Cove Offers Variety of

Activities for Visitors

At 365 acres, Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve is currently the largest preserved green space in Cape Coral.  Located just north of Veterans Pkwy. “Eco Park” features a 5,500 foot nature trail and boardwalk, two observation piers, a visitor’s center, and a seasonal native plant sale and kayak trail, (children under age 6 are not permitted in the kayaks).

Visitors of any age can walk through the preserve on the boardwalk 365 days a year.  There is no admission fee or charge for parking.  Possible wildlife sightings include eagles, osprey, ibis, herons, other wading and migratory birds, raccoons, snakes, ect.  Be sure to stop at the visitor’s center to check out the displays.  The center has information on locale wildlife, trail guides and restrooms.  Pets, boards, bikes or skates are not permitted on the boardwalk.  For more information on rentals or plant sales,

call 239-549-4606 or 239-574-7395 .

CAPE CORAL HAS HUGE POTENTIAL

                In last weeks column I focused on the construction and development activity within the city of Fort Myers, particularly in the downtown River District.  This week we look to that city to the west – Cape Coral – where recent growth and development demonstrate the huge potential in store for Southwest Florida’s most populous city.

                Without rehashing the well publicized housing market downturn, let’s look at Cape Coral’s commercial and residential growth and how it is being absorbed by the market

                The population growth in many parts of the city is already being supported by infrastructure and commercial development, but more is needed to service the needs of a geographic area as large as the 115 square miles that comprise Cape Coral.  The ratio of commercial to residential land use is far less than what is considered adequate for the future of Cape Coral’s commercial needs.  And as in any growing city, some roads are in need of widening or other improvements, and the monumental task of bringing municipal water and sewer throughout the entire city will take time and money.

                The Pine Island Road corridor is experiencing a staggering amount of development activity, and its geographic location is in the heart of where most of the growth is likely to occur due to the land area still available for development.  Case in point: the proposed Publix anchored 67,680- sq. ft. shopping center at Del Prado Blvd. and Kismet Pkwy. in north Cape Coral.

                There is no secret to the typically strong correlation between where the major supermarkets choose to locate and where robust residential population exists or is projected to live.  The proposed mall on Pine Island Rd. could add more than 1 million square feet of commercial space, but not until the segment of the road between Burnt Store and Chiquita Blvd. is widened to four lanes.  The Florida Dept. of Transportation still must acquire more right-of-way to reduce the $64 million price tag of the project.

                Permit for new single-family home construction has declined by more than 30 percent throughout 2006, which in not a bad thing due to the high inventory for sale, and multi-family permit activity has dropped off.  The number of commercial building permits issued in Cape Coral fluctuated from month to month with more than 630 commercial units permitted throughout the year for a combined value of more than $75 million not including the land.

                Looking ahead, there will be more than $1 billion worth of ambitious, mixed-use projects planned just in the Community Redevelopment Agency area in the southeast Cape Coral.

** Frank D’Alessandro – The News Press

CAPE CORAL

INTERESTING INFO

MINI BUS SERVICE

            One of the unique services offered through our Social Service Div. Is the Cape Coral Mini-Bus service.  This quality transport service is available for transportation disadvantaged Cape Coral Citizens, over the age of 18, within city limits.  Medical and shopping trips are prioritized.  For info and rates, please call the Mini-Bus office during regular office hours, 8am – 4pm, Mon – Fri, at (239) 574-0573.

FOUR FREEDOMS PARK

Is nestled on 3.2 acres overlooking Bimini Basin.  The Park is located off Cape Coral Pkwy. between Coronado Pkwy. and Santa Barbara Blvd.  Our large, shaded, fenced in area provides playground equipment geared towards all ages.  The multipurpose 3,927 square foot recreation facility offers programs for all ages.  A specially designed 2,000 square foot addition accommodates our popular preschool programs.

PARENT/CHILD HORSE DISCOVERY (4-6 Yrs)

This class is designed to introduce your child to the wonders of horses.  They will learn the basics of horsemanship, grooming and riding. Classes held at Venture Equestrian Training Cnt. in Cape Coral.

$85 Res/$94 Non-Res fee applies (4 classes) Call (239) 574-0804 for specific dated and times.

There is also a MOTHER/DAUGHTER HORSE DISCOVERY class.

HORSEMANSHIP SCHOOL FOR YOUNG RIDERS (8-14 yrs)

Learn the basics of general anatomy, safety, respect, grooming, handling, tack, walk, trot and canter.  Vaulting, English and Western styles of riding will be experienced.  Classes held at Venture Equestrian Cnt. In Cape Coral.  $140 Res/$154 Non Res. Fee applies (6 classes) Call (239) 574-0804 for specific dates and times.

SUMMER HORSE CAMP (7-16 yrs)

The City of Cape Coral has teamed up with Saddlewood Horse Club.  Beginners learn how to take care of “their” horse and ride in walk and trot. Daus are fun-filled with elements of English, Western, vaulting and horse knowledge. Students ride every day for several hours, play games on horseback and end the week with a parent presentation on Friday.  Equestrian approved riding helmets are mandatory and can be purchased at the stable’s tack shop for $40 or rented for $5/week.  Campers must bring their own lunch.  Birth certificate is required at time of registration to show proof of age.  Transportation provided by Four Freedoms Park staff.  $225 Res/$247 Non-Res (5 classes) Call for specific details.

EVENING AEROBICS & BODY SCULPTING (Adults 18+)

Each class will work on toning, combined wit step aerobics.  Classes are designed to give you a great total body conditioning and overall shaping workout.  Hand-held weights and exercise ball recommended but not required.   $48 Res/$46 Non-Res (12 classes).  Call for specific details (239) 574-0804.

TOTAL BODY CONDITIONING (Adults 18+)

This total body conditioning class, designed to take the impact out of the joint, will give you the best of aerobics and anaerobic training. You will go from boxing combinations to bicep curls to power squats.  Students need to provide 3 to 5lb hand weights.  Classes held at The Tony Rotino Center.  $48 Res/$53 Non-Res (12 classes) Call for specific dates and times.

20/20/20 (Adults 18+)

This class has three main components of a healthy fitness program.  Classes will include a balanced combination of cardio (no impact on joints or jumping), strength training (weights) for healthy bones and flexibility to keep you moving, thus encouraging a good range of motion.  Classes held at the Tony Rotino Center.  $48 Res/$53 Non-Res (12 classes) Call for details.

POWER KICK AEROBICS (Adults 18+)

Punches, jabs, hooks and kicks are used in this popular class that offers great workouts with little jumping.  A 30-minute cardio kickboxing segment with a 30-minute weight lifting segment utilizing a 10-15lb bar has been added to achieve a more lean and defined body type.  This class keeps you motivated and coming back for more.  Call for details.  $42 Res/$46 Non- Res (8 classes)

MULTI LEVEL YOGA (Adults 18+)

Become more flexible, stronger, more relaxed, and better able to cope with stressful situations in your daily life.  After each class you will walk away feeling the stretches, the strengthening and flexibility of your body, as well as the peace and tranquility of your mind.  Bring yoga mat, small pillow, washcloth and bath towel.  $55 Res/$50 Non-Res.

TAI CHI/QI-GONG (Adults 18+)

These classes teach meditation in motion promoting natural healing as it rejuvenates the mind, body and spirit.  It brings about true relaxation utilizing gentle flowing posture, concentration, slowness and awareness.  Classes are taught at different levels, beginning, intermediate, and multi-level.  There are also classes for People with disabilities and osteoporosis.  Classes held at the Tony Rotino Cnt.  Call (239) 574-0804 for specific resident and non-resident fees and dated and times.

IF I HAD A HORSE (Adults 18+)

Now is the perfect time for adults to fulfill their childhood dreams of learning everything you wanted to know about horses.  This course is designed for the beginner horse enthusiast.  Classes held at Venture Equestrian Cnt. In Cape Coral.  $140 Res/$154 Non-Res (6 classes).  Call for details.

ROTARY PARK ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER

5505 Rose Garden Rd.

Cape Coral, FL 33914

(239) 549-4606

For specific details on the classes listed below, please call (239) 549-4606.

DAYTIME STRETCH & TONE (Adults 18+)

Take some time to stretch & tone your muscles.  This class provides excellent health benefits for all fitness levels and will help condition your body against injury.  $20 Res/$22 Non-Res (4 classes)

DISCOVER YOGA & PILATES (Adults 18+)

30-minutes of Pilate’s, 30-minutes of yoga & (on Monday) 15 minutes of meditation.  This class is a well-planned, balanced combination of strength, flexibility, core stabilization, mental training and overall body conditioning.  Bring a yoga mat, please.  *6 classes $30 Res/$$33 Non-Res.  ** 7 classes $35 Res/$39 Non-Res.

SALLY’S SALSA & SCULPT (Adults 18+)

Warm up with high energy. Low impact salsa routine & then move on to tone every major body part, salsa style.  Light and weights are recommended, but not necessary, to get a great overall workout.  Please bring mat and water. 4 classes $32 Res/$35 Non-Res.

EASY YOGA 101 (Adults 18+)

Great for beginner’s.  Achieve deep relaxation through a unique conditioning program of breathing techniques combined with gentle movement, guided visualization and meditation.  Taught by an instructor certified in Yoga Phase 1 and 11.  Please bring a comfortable mat and towel.  4 classes $32 Res/$$35 Non-Res.

FACIAL WORKOUT WORKSHOP

Neck & facial muscles are just that – muscles & they should be regularly exercised.  Learn how to naturally lit, strengthen & sculpt what gravity is trying to lower. Come away with a refreshed look that is firm and youthful.  (Skin products will not be discussed)  $10 Res/$11 Non-res.

THE ART OF THE SAMURAI

This form of Japanese sword fencing will teach you the move of the Samurai.  This is a non-contact sport, working in pairs.  Due to the intensity of this class, you can achieve total body toneness.  8 classes $48 Res/$$53 Non-Res.

KARATE

There is an adult and a children’s class.  This self-defense form trains the physical motor skills, teaches a way of philosophy and maintains the spirit of Bushido (the old asian martial arts) to understand it and to put it into practice.  No special skills are required and it can be taken until an advanced age.  The children’s class goes on hiatus for the summer & will return when school resumes.  8 classes $69 Res/$76 Non-Res.

CAPE CORAL – RECLAIMING WASTE WATER

            Nowhere in South Florida is a community doing more to stretch the resource than Cape Coral, where 100% alternative water sources are used inside residences before being recycled and put on the yard.  And still the city is looking at storing millions of gallons of rainwater in dozens of manmade aquifers during rainy season instead of allowing it to escape into the Gulf. 

            And nowhere are people screaming louder about it- thanks to a utility expansion project briefly halted after residents stormed City Hall over $25,000 to $40,000 charges for mandatory hookups as part of the 12 year, $1 billion project. 

            Those connected in the southern part of the city have access to the most state-of-the-art water service in South Florida.  Those in the northern section rely on shallow private wells prone to going empty during dry season much the same as they do in Lehigh where private wells and septic tanks dominate and hooking up to public utilities is even further behind.

            “I think Cape Coral has it all,” Bengtsson said.  “They really have gone after all approaches to meet the demand they have for the city.  If they weren’t doing that, you would be into a situation where the growth would be limited- the water would become a limiting factor.”

            Manni Menz 66, has lived in Cape Coral for nine years and watched its growth – he follows the water rules but knows not everyone does.

            “I think it’s probably going to worse when you see the levels of new homes and new businesses in the Cape.” Menz said.  “Some people don’t read the paper or watch the news and just live in “Never neverland.”

            While capacity is being expanded, the Cape produces about 10 million gallons a day in drinking water, using deep salty groundwater and then recycling 96 percent of the returning wastewater before sending it back to homes using separate reclaim lines for irrigation.

            “They used to call it wastewater,” said George Riley, city   public works director.  “But we don’t waste it – we need all the water we can get.”

            Another 20 million gallons a day in canal water are added to meet the more that 30 million gallons a day needed to water the Cape and keep it looking green.  Those 200 miles of canals are a crucial link.  “We couldn’t serve the whole city without those canals,” Riley said.  “There is not enough water to irrigate – we don’t have enough to go around.”

            Because the city taps the deep and salty Floridian aquifer, drinking water is not expected to be an issue.  “We feel we have enough water for drinking at city build-out, but we sure don’t have enough for irrigation,” Riley said.  “The city is kind of on the cutting edge here.”

            So coming up with irrigation water will require pulling out the stops, including constructing aquifer storage well – man-made underground bubbles of water – to store rainwater for use in the dry season.  Three wells are planned at a cost of about $9 million – after construction and 18 months of testing they each will store about 1 million gallons of water a day during the dry season. 

            “If you use it up too soon, there is not enough to get you to the next rainy season,” said Riley.  “We have to make it last all winter.”

            The Cape’s tough enforcement – it handed out almost 1,000 tickets during the first week of water restrictions – is necessary to preserve the resource, Riley said.

            “Would you rather have all the water you want for four months and then have it run out?” he said.

Lee West, Hydrologist for Lee County

5/7/07