Senior living complex expands with new building, units start at $1.17M

Shell Point Retirement Community, a nonprofit continuing care retirement community in Fort Myers, has announced plans to develop a new independent living midrise building, named Vista Cay.  

Located on The Island at Shell Point in Fort Myers, the building, Vista Cay, will offer 59 apartment homes on 12 residential floors over two floors of parking, according to a statement. All units will have sunrise or sunset coastal views, with prices starting at $1.17 million. There are 15 different floor plans available, the release states, including lofts with high ceilings and large balconies ranging from 1,544 to 2,327 square feet; mid-rise residences ranging from 1,582 to 2,235 square feet; and penthouse residences with panoramic views ranging from 2,237 to 2,722 square feet. 

The project will be built with a coastal-modern design. Residences will be outfitted with hurricane-rated impact windows and doors, suites with walk-in closets, open-plan kitchen design with island, wood cabinetry with quartz countertops, Whirlpool stainless steel appliances and Kohler under-mount sinks and faucets. A Social Room and Terrace on the first residential floor will also provide a catering kitchen for special gatherings for all Vista Cay residents, the release states. 

Shell Point is also reorganizing The Island’s amenities, with the construction of a new 100,000-square-foot building, Island Commons. Adjacent to Vista Cay, Island Commons will include a community store and market, dining options, fitness room, bank, library, classrooms and additional amenities for residents. 

The Island neighborhood at Shell Point is located along the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers. 

“Expansion has always been a part of Shell Point’s history, and we have steadily cultivated our offerings to meet the rising demand for senior lifestyle options in Southwest Florida,” Martin Schappell, president and CEO of Shell Point, says in the statement. “Now, Shell Point is returning to The Island with the addition of Vista Cay. We are proud to continue Shell Point’s legacy for unparalleled setting, lifestyle and lifecare.”

Construction is expected to begin in July and estimated for completion in 2026. Project partners include architect Perkins Eastman for Vista Cay and BSSW Architects for the Island Commons amenities center. Wegman Design Group is the interior designer.

Shell Point Retirement Community, founded in 1968, offers independent retirement living, assisted living and skilled nursing for its 2,500 residents in an active, resort-style environment.