Entry #11

The kinds of emotions the word "downtown" evokes are busy, crowded, horrible driving, no parking, expensive, and lots of restaurants and hang out spots. The stature in communities changed over time because downtown area are known for the rich older citizens, but it now has nightlife for young adults. Downtown Ft. Myers is experiencing something of a renaissance because of the reconstruction and development of a newer community without losing some of the historic buildings. Some of the prominent architectural features are the designs of the buildings. To rekindle the "pedestrian" spirit, it's designed to have people walk on the cobblestone pavements and create a walking environment. Some "nods to history" that we saw on the tour was the monument of Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Harvey Firestone, which all once lived in Ft. Myers (once known as, Ft. Harvie). McGregor Boulevard got the name because Flossy McGregor wanted the cattle pull road to be paved, so she petitioned and paid for half the cost. The economy of Ft. Myers evolved from past to present because of a successful financial district. It all relates to sustainability because it preserves the history and is a great place for people the hang out.