Growth

Some longtime Cape Coral residents fear for the future of the once laid-back community. Development, they say, is ruining the old charm of the cape.

Residents have mixed feeling about the city's exponential growth.

Last year, more people moved to Polk county than to any other in the United States, almost 30,000.

By 2035, the county's population is expected to grow by 70,000, prompting commissioners to revise its comprehensive plan.

Commissioners hope the project, at Interstate 75 and State Road 52, will become an economic gateway to the county.

Tampa City Council moves forward on the development at the north end of Ybor Channel on a site once considered for a Rays stadium. The plan includes residential, hotels, retail and harbor views.

More than 29,300 people moved to Polk County, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

South Carolina and Florida were the two fastest-growing states in the U.S. this year. New estimates released by the U.S. Census Bureau on Tuesday show that the South dominated population gains in 2023.

Studies show Plant City and nearby communities will increase from 60,000 residents to more than 150,000 by 2050. Some residents embrace the change, but others who have spent their lives there say the town's history is key to maintaining its original identity.

One commissioner says it's the best plan under a bad policy.

The December event aims to open conversations about balancing nature and development.