NAPLES, Fla. — The Naples city council approved the zoning site plan and residential units for the upcoming 5-star resort set to replace the historic Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club.
Fox 4 spoke with neighbors about what this change could bring to the community.
Helene Blouin says she comes to this hotel each year because of proximity to the beach.
“Which value is more important, money or nature and of course you chose. I come here for nature,” says Helene Blouin.
Some people are frustrated with the city's decision to destroy such a historic site in the community.
“I don’t want Naples to become Marco Island...the high-rises all on the beaches that’s what makes Naples a unique community, ” said Carol Oconnell.
“It’s going to be really crowed, its nice to have some space close to the sea,” said Helene Blouin.
Carol Oconnell understands there are both pros and cons to building this new resort.
“It’s going to bring more jobs, its a bigger resort so its going to bring more revenue into the Naples community,” said Oconnel.
Tracey Keith, says the Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club has been a landmark for years, but understand the decision to rebuild and the good that can out of change.
“Change is difficult for everybody, you know its kind of uncomfortable so we’ll have to see,” said Tracy Keith.
The hotel was originally built in 1946 and owned by the Watkins family.
The new owners and developers, The Athens group, plans to tear down the hotel and start construction in 2021.
