How Public Investment Fuels Private Success

How Public Investment Fuels Private Success

President’s Club Recap with Don Scott, Executive Director, Lee County MPO

On April 29, SWFL Inc. hosted its latest President’s Club event, welcoming Don Scott, Executive Director of the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). The session brought together influential leaders from across Southwest Florida to explore how public infrastructure investments influence private sector success, economic competitiveness, and regional livability.

We extend our gratitude to our President’s Club sponsors: Lee Health, NCH, Kitson & Partners, TECO People’s Gas, and Gravina, Smith, Matt & Arnold Marketing & PR for supporting this important dialogue.

Strategic Investments Driving Mobility and Growth

Scott began by outlining where taxpayer dollars are currently being deployed. At the local level, key projects include the widening of Corkscrew Road, improvements to Ortiz Avenue, and the replacement of the Cape Coral Bridge. From the state perspective, the expansion of I-75 to eight lanes between Golden Gate Parkway and Corkscrew Road is one of the most significant undertakings, funded through the Governor’s Moving Florida Forward initiative.

These investments are not just about alleviating traffic. They are designed to support workforce access, sustain regional growth, and enable business development. Scott emphasized that infrastructure forms the foundation for long-term economic success.

How Priorities Are Set

Scott explained that infrastructure projects are prioritized using both federal guidelines and local metrics, including congestion levels, environmental impact, cost, and project readiness. While there is a comprehensive list of priorities, he noted that under current funding levels, it could take nearly 20 years to complete the existing pipeline.

He also shared that federal earmarks and state appropriations can help move projects forward but are limited and highly competitive. Collaborative funding strategies, such as local matches for design and planning, can increase momentum.

Dispelling the Funding Myth

A common misconception, Scott noted, is that transportation funding is abundant. The federal gas tax has not increased since 1993, while project costs have risen significantly due to inflation, higher land acquisition costs, and material price volatility.

Multi-million dollar projects may appear well-funded, but they rarely match the actual scope or needs of the region.

The Business Community’s Role

Scott stressed that the private sector is a critical stakeholder in the regional planning process. Business owners can engage through advisory committees, provide input on development-related road needs, and help advocate for key projects.

He pointed to the successful expansion of I-75 as an example of what is possible when business and government leaders collaborate to accelerate infrastructure goals.

Projects on the Horizon

Several high-impact projects are currently in progress or on the horizon. Among the most significant is the extension of Alico Road to State Road 82. This corridor is expected to carry more than 45,000 vehicles per day once complete, improving commute times and unlocking commercial development opportunities in Lehigh Acres.

Other initiatives include:

• Enhancing turn lanes at key intersections such as Corkscrew Road and Three Oaks Parkway

• Deploying adaptive traffic signals to reduce delays

• Exploring commuter rail and advanced air mobility options for long-term planning

• Expanding vanpool programs that offer practical and cost-effective transit solutions for workers traveling long distances

Scott highlighted that vanpooling has proven effective and scalable, particularly for employers and employees in more remote or rural locations.

Planning for Density and Housing Alignment

As development patterns shift, the conversation also turned to the need for denser, more strategically located housing. Scott explained that while MPO modeling supports compact, mixed-use development, final land use decisions lie with local governments.

Recent examples of progress include the redevelopment of Edison Mall and new multifamily projects in North Fort Myers. Affordable housing near employment hubs remains essential for reducing commute times and relieving pressure on existing corridors.

Preparing for the Future

Attendees explored the role of signal technology, regional collaboration with Collier and Charlotte counties, and long-term innovations such as electric vertical takeoff aircraft. Scott shared that planning horizons extend to 2050, with data-driven modeling guiding investment strategies.

He acknowledged challenges in succession planning within small agencies and encouraged regional leaders to consider how they might help ensure institutional continuity. Understanding the system and how to navigate it will be essential for securing future transportation funding.

Join the Conversation

This President’s Club conversation reinforced that infrastructure is not only a government concern. It is a business imperative. Mobility, access, and connectivity directly affect Southwest Florida’s economic competitiveness, quality of life, and ability to attract new investment.

If you want to participate in high-level conversations that shape the future of our region, we invite you to become a member of SWFL Inc.'s President’s Club. Membership includes access to exclusive events like this one and connects you with leaders in business, government, and economic development.

Become a President’s Club Member and take your seat at the table.