Bell Tower Shops planning a facelift that would create jobs

COURTESY RENDERING Bell Tower Shops entry The Bell Tower Shops in Fort Myers is taking on a multi-million dollar investment that will modernize the shopping center. The work exterior renewal work started in May and is scheduled to be finished in the fall.

Fifty workers will find employment through the project, which will cause little disruption to shoppers, diners and window-browsers.

"This renovation is designed to enhance the shopping experience, attract new retailers and create appeal for the next generation of shoppers," said Amy Fletcher-Smith, Bell Tower Shops director of marketing. "Bell Tower Shops will soon have an atmosphere truly fitting its superior mix of shops and restaurants."

Design inspiration for the revitalized Bell Tower Shops came from three distinct realms — historic European streetscapes, icons of luxury in Florida and the modern consumer experience.

"The Center Court will enjoy a complete facelift that will improve the setting as a venue for concerts and gatherings," said Fletcher-Smith. "New landscaping and a fresh color scheme based on pinks, chocolates and tans will evoke a sense of old Palm Beach luxury with a contemporary twist that will update the look and increase street appeal."

COURTESY RENDERING Bell Tower Shops street scene The revitalized mall will have greater accessibility, new tile and pavers, awnings and lightinging, modern benches, tables and chairs, umbrellas and accessories, a restored bell in the tower, improved landscaping and directional signage and refurbished fountains.

An expanded calendar of events will provide year-round activities and promotions for shoppers, diners and visitors.

A preview center can be found between Cache and Francesca's Collections and provides an introduction to the updates at Bell Tower.

"Bell Tower Shops is the perfect home for Saks Fifth Avenue, and we're very excited to see this project begin," said Saks General Manager Carole Stockard . Ms. Stockard says the upgrades to the north entrance and water feature outside Saks will benefit all tenants.

"We're also extremely pleased to be helping the economy by creating jobs for local workers," said Bell Tower Shops general manager Becky Thompson.

COURTESY RENDERING Bell Tower Shops Center Court Bell Tower Shops is an open-air center, located at U.S. 41 and Daniels Parkway, with 40 retailers, including Saks Fifth Avenue and The Fresh Market, nine restaurants and Bell Tower 20 Regal Cinemas. The latest addition to the center was Cache, a shop for women, which opened in March.

ADP Group, an architectural, interior design and planning firm in Sarasota, designed the redevelopment plan. Madison Marquette Retail Services is the managing agent for Bell Tower Shops.