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Bell Tower Shops Revitalization Announced

Bell Tower Shops, the landmark Fort Myers lifestyle center, has announced plans for a multimillion dollar investment that will modernize the premier shopping destination. Work, which includes a wide variety of exterior enhancements, began in May and is scheduled to be completed before the 2009 fall shopping season.

The project, which will support more than 50 workers, will be undertaken with little or no inconvenience to shoppers.

“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.”

Greeting shoppers and tenants in the coming months will be

·         New exterior color scheme

·         Enhanced access

·         New tile and pavers, awnings and lighting schemes

·         Modern furnishings including benches, tables and chairs, umbrellas and accessories

·         Restoration of the bell in the tower

·         Improved landscaping and enhanced directional signage

·         Refurbished fountains at the Center Court and Saks Fifth Avenue

·         Introduction of an exciting new branding package including a logo

In addition, an expanded calendar of events will provide year-round activities and promotions for shoppers, diners and visitors. A Preview Center, located between Cache and Francesca’s Collections, provides an introduction to the new Bell Tower Shops.

“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. “The plans for upgrading our north entrance and enhancing the water feature outside our location look wonderful and will benefit Saks as well as all the other tenants.”

The retail center will continue to update its merchandising mix and explore the addition of new shops. The most recent addition is Cache, a specialty retailer for style-conscious women.

“This renovation will more effectively position Bell Tower Shops in Southwest Florida’s very competitive retail market,” said Bell Tower Shops General Manager Becky Thompson. “We’re also extremely pleased to be helping the economy by creating jobs for local workers.”

Bell Tower Shops is an open-air lifestyle center, ideally 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 center’s sidewalk garden setting of lush landscaping, splashing fountains and covered walkways makes it a popular gathering place. To learn more, log onto www.TheBellTowerShops.com, or call 239-489-1221.

Sarasota-based ADP Group, a full-service multidisciplinary architecture, interior design and planning firm, designed Bell Tower Shops’ redevelopment plan.

Madison Marquette Retail Services is the managing agent for Bell Tower Shops, which is a partnership of Principal Life Insurance Company and Madison Realty Partnership L.P.

Contact:
Amy Fletcher-Smith
Bell Tower Shops
(239) 480-1221
amy.fletcher-smith@madisonmarquette.com