Luxury Apartment Complex Approved in Naples After Lengthy Debate
The Collier County Board of Commissioners voted 4-1 on Tuesday (10/24/2023) to approve plans for a new upscale apartment community along Vanderbilt Beach Road in Naples, Florida. The board’s decision came after around 7 hours of discussion and public comments regarding the Ascend Naples development proposed by CIG Communities.
The approved site plan calls for 17.5 acres to be rezoned to make way for 208 apartment units, clubhouse, and preserved land. The apartments would be built across 14-16 buildings ranging from 3 to 4 stories in height. The project would have over 100 feet of separation from nearby single-family homes.
Of the total units, 34% would be income-restricted with rents capped below market rate. This includes 31 units limited to those making 80% of the median income, 31 at 100%, and 9 at 120%. The developer said locating dense housing near major roads like Vanderbilt Beach Road is appropriate.
Nearby residents voiced mixed opinions, with some citing traffic and density concerns. But others argued it could expand affordable housing options versus other possible projects. In the end, a supermajority of commissioners felt the project was favorable compared to potential alternatives allowed under current zoning.
One commissioner dissented, saying the site’s estate zoning shouldn’t be altered without perfect circumstances. The land was previously zoned for estate uses before the approval of Ascend Naples.
With the rezoning amendment to the growth plan passed, the luxury apartment project will now proceed to more detailed design phases. Completion timeframes were not provided by the developer.
My thoughts :
The recent approval of the Ascend Naples apartment development by the Collier County Commission was an encouraging move to address the area's lack of workforce housing. While not a full solution, this project makes meaningful progress.
With over 30% of units designated as affordable, Ascend Naples will provide hundreds of hardworking individuals and families the opportunity to live in Collier County. Teachers, nurses, service workers, and young professionals are among those who will benefit.
The Board deserves credit for supporting responsible growth near existing infrastructure, despite opposition from some. Embracing density along transportation corridors is far wiser than pushing sprawl.
No doubt Ascend Naples will impact surrounding neighborhoods. But we must balance preserving exclusivity with enabling vital workers to live near their jobs. Shared sacrifices are needed to build an inclusive community.
Rather than resist all change, residents should engage constructively on projects like Ascend Naples. With cooperation, we can shape developments that allow Naples to thrive economically while maintaining cherished character.
Ascend Naples is not a magic bullet, but signals leaders recognize affordable housing matters. Let us build on this momentum, continuing to welcome workforce communities vital for our collective future. Reasonable compromise can keep Naples a place for all who contribute to its prosperity.
To read more about this project visit Gulfshore Business.