LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Former resident wonders about name, as well as effects from, new development

To the Editor: Having spent most of my life in and around Placida, I am writing to express my thoughts and concerns about the planned development of the old Fishery property located in Placida. I am not anti-growth or against change but I’m saddened to see the elimination of a place’s traditional identity. Seems to me that smart growth incorporates that identity into the new development.

To the Editor:

Having spent most of my life in and around Placida, I am writing to express my thoughts and concerns about the planned development of the old Fishery property located in Placida. I am not anti-growth or against change but I’m saddened to see the elimination of a place’s traditional identity. Seems to me that smart growth incorporates that identity into the new development.

I of course have concerns for the additional traffic that a hotel/marina/restaurant/condo development will ultimately increase traffic on the toll booth, Causeway to Boca Grande, Gasparilla Road (771) and Placida Road.

I am confused, however, as to why the planned project is to be called The Village and Marina of Boca Grande? The old Fishery site is indisputably located in Placida, an established commercial settlement with a long history on the Southwest Florida coast.

Placida is distinct geographical locale separated from Boca Grande, Gasparilla Island. Why are the project developers opting to omit the historical/geographically correct Placida designation in favor of calling their project The Village and Marina of Boca Grande?

Capt. Marian Schneider

Former owner of Grande Tours, Inc. 

Placida, Fl 33946