Fort Myers Honors Late Educator by Renaming Part of Edison Avenue Charlotte Rafferty Way

The Fort Myers City Council voted to name a stretch of Edison Avenue after Charlotte Rafferty, who passed away on June 6, 2025. The 0.2-mile section between Euclid and Lane Avenues will bear her name.

Through Resolution No. 2025-107, officials created Charlotte Rafferty Way. New signs will display "Honorary" to distinguish them from standard street markers.

This tribute marks the work of a woman who changed the arts teaching in Lee County. In 1991, she built Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts School from scratch. Her vision turned it into the county's first arts-centered school.

At a packed 4:30 p.m. Monday meeting, residents shared stories about the former principal. Just ninety days after her death, the council made their choice.

The selected street sits next to the school she started. Students walking to class will now pass under signs that keep her spirit alive in the neighborhood she helped shape.