Southern Florida’s trail ambitions just got a major boost with Collier County’s decision to pledge $6.9 million toward the Bonita Estero Rail Trail (BERT) project, a milestone move in connecting neighborhoods, nature and regional mobility.

Trail Vision Meets Investment

The project centers on transforming roughly 11.4 miles of the former rail corridor—stretching from Wiggins Pass Road in Collier County into Lee County’s Estero Parkway—into a multi-use trail for biking, walking and commuting.
With the county’s pledge, nearly all of the local match needed to unlock state conservation/recreation funding is in place.

Strategic Impacts for the Region

  • Connectivity: The trail promises to link suburban neighborhoods to commercial hubs and green space, reducing reliance on cars and creating safer, non-motorized routes.

  • Health & Recreation: By offering a dedicated paved corridor, the trail supports outdoor fitness, family outings and pedestrian access that bypasses congested roadways.

  • Economic & Real Estate: Enhanced trail connectivity often correlates with increased adjacent property values, stronger community appeal and attraction for active‐lifestyle buyers.

  • Environment: The reuse of an existing rail corridor minimizes new land disturbance and makes use of under-utilized infrastructure.

Funding Landscape & Timeline

  • The total acquisition cost for the first phase (11.4 miles) is around $70.4 million.

  • Local pledges now include: Collier County ($6.9 M), Village of Estero, and City of Bonita Springs.

  • After local funding is secured, the team will pursue state/federal grants under programs like Florida Forever.

  • Planning kicks off immediately, with design, environmental review and public-outreach expected before construction begins. Full buildout may stretch into 2028-2030 depending on permitting and funding.