River Hall Fighting To Stay Rural

Some River Hall residents are in a courtroom battle with Lee County to preserve the community as a rural, laid-back Old Florida residential area that was marketed to them as such when they purchased their new residences. So far, a Judge has sided with the residents and ruled in their favor over Lee County’s efforts to develop more homes and increase density. Administrative Law Judge Suzanne Van Wyk in December ruled that Lee County was “not in compliance” for the changes to the community plan. River Hall’s developer has tried to double the number of homes in 2012 from the already promised 1,999 on land designated as “rural.” River Hall’s developer had tried in 2005 and 2007 to seek approval even then for building more homes on what was initially billed as “rural” land. Residents of River Hall and the Caloosahatchee Shores area changed their community plan to reflect no land use amendments can be made to rural lands. River Hall is an upscale award winning, gated master-planned golf community in Fort Myers surrounded by towering oaks and natural preserves. Much of the community is swathed in preserves, green spaces and lakes. Sidewalks and trails with distinct neighborhoods and a town square connect this village-style community. Exceptional amenities include a championship 18-hole golf course and a full service golf club, golf pro shop, professional golf staff and club grille; lagoon-style swimming pool with beach entry and sundeck; tennis courts; fully-equipped fitness center with aerobics classes; snack bar; programmed activities; trails and lakes; and a separate Kids wing with arts & crafts, games, playground and movies. The location of River Hall is near the Caloosahatchee River. Residents are minutes to the beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway located 15 minutes from downtown Fort Myers. It’s just a short drive to Naples with shopping, fine restaurants and cultural arts. Homes in River Hall are in carefully planned villages, or distinct neighborhoods, with several different floor plans ranging in size from 2,100-3,144 square feet with architectural details and designer finishes. Cottage and Estate Homes feature up to 4 bedrooms, and up to 4 full and 2 half baths, 2 and 3-car garages, flexible space options, bonus rooms or additional bedrooms.