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Cape Coral City Council approved the 'Seven Islands' waterfront development after over ten years of planning. Forest Development plans to build a mixed-use project including condos, apartments, restaurants, a marina, and a community center off Old Burnt Store Road.

The development will be situated on seven small islands north of Matlacha. Initial exploration began in 2015, with community input shaping the project's vision. While many residents welcome the new amenities, concerns were raised about increased traffic and infrastructure capacity.

Forest Development asserts traffic studies indicate the project will not worsen traffic and will promote alternative transportation options. The company has applied for environmental permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which are nearing completion, with construction expected to begin in over a year.