April 10th, 2026

A Once-in-a-Generation Path to a Safer, Greener Southwest Florida

For years, Southwest Florida has been defined by a paradox: we live in a tropical paradise, yet our roads are among the deadliest in the nation for cyclists and pedestrians. We are a community of world-class beaches and nature preserves, yet we are often trapped in gridlock, separated from our neighbors by concrete and high-speed traffic. But right now, we have a literal “path forward” to change that narrative forever.

The Bonita Estero Rail Trail (BERT) is no longer just a vision; it is a transformational reality within our reach. This 11.4-mile linear park, stretching from Wiggins Pass Road in Collier County to Estero Parkway in Lee County, represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to repurpose the unused Seminole Gulf Railway corridor into a safe, scenic, and non-motorized artery for our region.

BERT is an essential part of a much larger vision to connect greenways and trails from Tampa to Naples, the 420 mile Florida Gulf Coast Trail. Without BERT, this may not be possible. BERT has a direct connection to the Paradise Coast Trail, and will allow bicycle commuters to travel safely to work and home, away from traffic.

Why BERT is a Necessity, Not a Luxury

This project is about more than just a place to ride a bike. It is a critical infrastructure investment with far-reaching benefits:

• Life-Saving Safety: By providing a 12-foot wide paved path completely separated from vehicle traffic, BERT will prevent pedestrian and cyclist injuries and fatalities in our high-injury corridors.
• Environmental Stewardship: BERT isn’t just a trail, it is an opportunity to permanently protect 180 acres of land in Lee and Collier Counties: Land protected in perpetuity and activated thoughtfully for public benefit-balancing conservation, access, safety and community use.
• Connecting Communities: BERT will provide a beautiful, accessible greenway to connect people to neighborhoods, schools, shopping, jobs and each other. BERT creates a critical connection to Collier County’s Paradise Coast Trail, allowing users to travel from Estero to Naples and beyond.

The Time is Now

We have reached a critical milestone. Thanks to the Trust for Public Land, Friends of BERT, and a coalition of three jurisdictions, we are poised to secure the 11.4 miles and 180 acres of the rail corridor.

Collier County BOCC,  Village of Estero and Bonita Springs City Councils have already cast historic votes to move forward with this project . But the work isn’t done. Bonita Springs residents will be asked to approve a bond referendum this August to fund their portion of this legacy project.

This is our moment to choose a future where our children can bike to school safely and our seniors can enjoy the outdoors without fear. Let’s finish what we started and build the Bonita Estero Rail Trail. It’s not just a path; it’s the future of Southwest Florida.

What can you do Become a Friend of BERT at bonitaesterorailtrail.com it’s free and you’ll remain updated on the project’s progress and the opportunity to volunteer or donate to the cause. This is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) advocating for BERT and all trails in SW Florida.

Deb Orton – President, Friends of BERT