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Catch The Vision: Economic outlook set for Tuesday

3 min read

As the local economic outlook continues to brighten, residential and commercial development in Cape Coral likewise is on the rise.

“The value of commercial building permits in the city has grown by 400 percent from 2013,” said Economic Development director Dana Brunett. “That’s pretty solid for Cape Coral. Housing permits are increasing as well. It’s hard to turn a corner in the city without seeing some construction.”

Development is the hot topic to be presented next week at the 6th annual Catch The Vision event at the Cape Christian Fellowship church, 2110 Chiquita Blvd. The event starts at 5 p.m. on Tuesday with the trade show showcase portion of the program, followed at 6:30 by the formal presentation featuring real estate values, new construction projects, business startups and relocations. The presentation focuses on specific projects recently completed, currently under way or coming soon.

Organizers have changed the format of the formal presentation in favor of a more interactive and entertaining production.

“It’s like Saturday Night Live,” said Realtor and organizer Gloria Tate. “There will be one-on-one interviews on stage and video reports from development sites around town. It’s definitely more entertaining.”

More information has been stuffed into the city directory booklet given out to attendees, containing contact information and a new helpful website resource.

“We’re also asking people to bring items for our Thanksgiving food drive to be donated to the Cape Coral Caring Center,” said Tate.

Cape Coral Caring Center also receives a monetary donation from the event proceeds.

The trade show component consists of about 20 local business vendors providing information with about a dozen sponsors giving out information and prizes. A few of the vendors are new to the event.

“The presentation features the general health and direction of developments in the city,” said Brunett. “It covers what is occurring and what’s coming. Commercial corridors like Pine Island are going strong, but there’s other development going on, too. One good thing is a number of existing businesses are expanding.”

Brunett cited the Village at Entrada development on North Del Prado where D.R. Horton Homes has projected to build 700 single family residences.

“D.R. Horton will be there to also talk and answer questions about the vacant golf course property,” said Tate. “This city is moving forward in favor of both families and retirees. The home market is strong and increasing in value. Buyers are coming from all over and the overseas buyers are still connected. That all brings the economy into balance for the city.”

Neither Tate nor Brunett would discuss more specific projects in order to not spoil the surprise.

“People have to come to the event to find out,” said Tate.

A limited number of tickets to attend the event are now $15 and available in advance online or over the phone. Tickets will not be sold at the event unless there are tickets left over.

For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.catchthevisioncapecoral.com or call Tate or Linda Biondi 239-542-2254.