Collier County Planning Board Backs New Costco Despite Neighbors’ Pushback

Plans for a second Costco store were approved by the Collier County planning board in East Naples, Florida. Nearby homeowners fought the plan, citing traffic fears and gas station rules. 

The store would take up 26 acres at the meeting point of Rattlesnake Hammock Road and Collier Boulevard. The plan needs special approval since its gas pumps would be just 132 feet from a 7-Eleven — far less than the required 500-foot distance rule.

"There are no negative impacts associated with the gas waiver," said Brad Wester, a Costco representative, according to WINK News. "There was a supply and demand. So there was a shortage in the area. And so Costco has proven that through this market study."

Jack Yuzinski from Esplanade at Hacienda Lakes voiced strong concerns. "Traffic, noise, tractor-trailer traffic, which we don't have now, running down Rattlesnake Hammock, which is our basic residential access to all of the residences, the 2000 residences that are there."

After studying land rules, the board voted 4-1 to support the project. They added rules for more trees, removed a sign facing the hospital, and asked for work with bus services.

Current Costco shoppers in North Naples want the new store. Naples local Paraschiva Valean said about the current store: "Crazy, crazy, chaotic, and is not fair for the customers. I'm very happy. And we are talking about they should open one."

The board of county commissioners will make its final decision on Oct. 14.