FORT MYERS, Fl -- Your neighbors in the Dunbar community are voicing concerns about an $82 million dollar apartment complex that may be coming to their neighborhood. Thursday, city activists held the "Community Conversation on Growth," to discuss those concerns with developers and city leaders.
The development was approved by the Fort Myers City Council, and it will consist of 420 apartments on Seaboard Street and Michigan Avenue in Fort Myers. Developers say it’s going to affordable and needed in the area, but people who live in Dunbar don’t see it that way.
"I’m just fighting to keep the culture of my community. I’m fighting for those who are there that will not speak," said Crystal Johnson, the President of the Community Forum Foundation Inc.
Johnson says she welcomes growth but explains an apartment complex isn’t what Dunbar needs.
"Bring in something that we can use, bring in something that we can enjoy. if you have old homes, build homes that people want to build homes that people can afford to live in," John said.
The Greenwald Group, the developers of the MLK Seaboard Waterside Apartments say it as a big win for the area. Although many people have felt they would be forced out of their homes Jerry Miller, with Greenwald, says gentrification isn’t even a thought.
"We’re in an area that’s been blotted, that needs development, that will spur other development, and that’s just going to be uplifting for the community," Miller said.
Community activists, like Crystal Johnson, says she plans to fight for her community.
"It doesn't take away anything, however, it’s not bringing anything either that’s the problem," Johnson said.
Developers believe It will also bring in more jobs to the minority community. The Greenwald group says this development is projected to be completed in 2023.
