Estero prepares for presidential visit at Hertz Arena Wednesday

Writer: Jack Lowenstein
Published: Updated:
Hundreds of supporters were shut out of Germain Arena once it filled to capacity. But many were happy to watch to Donald Trump’s speech from outside on a large screen. (Chloe Herring/WINK)

Locals in Estero and surrounding communities will have more than one attraction near them this Halloween. One attraction doesn’t specifically have anything to do with whether you would like a trick or treat though. That would be the recently scheduled visit from the president.

President Donald Trump’s rally for Republican candidates in Southwest Florida is at Hertz Arena next Wednesday, Oct. 31.

“That’s probably going to be really bad, especially with the kids going out a lot earlier and not being out around dark,” Annie McDonald said.

The president’s visit will undoubtedly create traffic delays on whatever route he takes from Southwest International Airport, either I-75 or more likely Ben Hill Griffin Parkway.

People are planning accordingly.

“Working from home or going home earlier rather than staying later would be much better,” McDonald said.

The local community has practice with presidential rallies. Trump visited two years ago for his own campaign.

“When President Trump was here, streets were gridlocked, traffic; we had no parking left over,” said Jeff Staner, vice president of Miromar Outlets. “People were parking on the grass.”

That’s why Miromar outlets trick or treat event has been moved to the day before Halloween.

“We’re flipping it — same time, same event, and everyone should be able to get in here and park and have a good time in a safe place for trick or treating,” Staner said.

If you would like to reserve tickets for the event here in Fort Myers, visit the website here.

Tickets are on a first come first serve basis.

Copyright ©2024 Fort Myers Broadcasting. All rights reserved.

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without prior written consent.