$42M downtown Sanibel plans include theater, more parking

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SANIBEL, Fla.- A performing hall, theater and extra parking are all included in new plans envisioned for a downtown area on Sanibel Island.

“It’s where citizens, where people, where residents and visitors all can come together,” said Mayor Kevin Ruane, “have many different attractions, park their car and really get into that walk-able, bike-able everyone talks about.”

Places like Big Arts, the Sanibel Community Association and Island Seniors say they are continuing to grow and are at capacity. The Civic Core project will give them the opportunity to expand.

“I think our senior citizens need a better facility than what they have, Big Arts says they need a larger place,” said Billy Kirkland, owner of Billy’s Bike Rentals.

Ruane adds the city will donate 26 acres to the $42 million project.

“We anticipate this, based on some projections, this could cost an average taxpayer a little over $100 dollars a year,” Ruane said.

“I think it’d be a great idea to incorporate some type of open space, you know maybe an amphitheater- type area,” said Sterling Chamberlain.

Sanibel city leaders will continue discussing the plans next month.

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