Southwest Florida Regional Airport hosts a series of passenger and government flights that make the venue one of America’s busiest airports. Initially valued for optimal crop conditions, the region gained in popularity courtesy of marine warfare during World War II. Since the 1960s, local populations continue to double every decade according to the Southwest Florida Regional Planning Council.
Brief Airport Overview
Officials renamed Southwest Florida Regional Airport (RSW) to Southwest Florida International Airport in 1993. The facility opened in the spring of 1983 to alleviate air traffic in nearby Page Field. Popular passenger destinations include the towns of Cape Coral, Captiva Island and Naples. United States (U.S.) Customs and Border Protection aircraft also use RSW runways as a major entry point.
Past / Present Improvement Projects
Within five years, RSW exceeded expected passenger capacity levels. A larger, 28-gate concourse opened in the fall of 2005 with room for further expansion. Recent projects include airport fire and rescue facilities alongside enhanced runway systems. Plans are under development for multiple onsite businesses including a commercial park and airport hotel.
Upcoming Development
Naples Daily News invited the public to discuss potential development ideas for Southwest Regional Airport. Hosted by the Property Director for Lee County Port Authority, the September 2012 event gave a rundown of available properties, incentives and updates for ongoing projects. Interested parties also discussed potential real estate broker compensation.
Hamilton-Franklin Realty
Hamilton-Franklin Realty handles real estate listings throughout Southwest Florida. Office and industrial properties are available alongside multiple and single-family dwellings. Experienced representatives assist from the initial search processes to obtaining proper financing.
The Next Step
Interested parties should visit the South Florida region to determine if setting up shop at Southwest Florida Regional Airport feels right. Southwest, US Airways and JetBlue are a few airlines that provide daily service. Visitors and residents offer the following airport advice to new arrivals.
– Plan ground transportation accordingly for a hassle-free experience. Taxis and rental cars are plentiful. Most local hotels offer complimentary shuttle service. Private companies offer additional transport services. Public transportation only operates between the hours of 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. as of November 2012.
– Note there are no airline lounges or clubs at RSW as of November 2012. Multiple food and beverage facilities exist within the airport terminal. Massage services help ease traveler tension. A TravelEx Business Center offers faxes, copies and currency exchange services.
A September 2012 article in The Sun Sentinel indicates current Florida incomes top national averages, strengthening the local economy. Winds from the East bring mild year-round temperatures and relief for Northern residents looking to flee harsh weather. Average annual temperatures in southwestern Florida range from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (F).
RSW and the surrounding area evolved from remote farmlands to a warm-weather retreat for a wide range of vacationers. The thriving local populace creates a solid community backbone. Upcoming projects at Southwest Florida Regional Airport hope to meet the demands of a steadily increasing population.