Treasured childhood memories and a solid background in urban planning have given wings to developer and general contractor Ray Masciana’s vision for Page Field Center. The new retail strip, expected to open in March of 2016, will house Florida’s first full-service Nathan’s Famous restaurant, and boasts a hangar-style architecture that pays homage to the rich aviation history represented by its namesake Page Field Air Park, located directly across U.S. 41.
Masciana grew up down the block from the second Nathan’s Famous restaurant, opened in 1955 in Oceanside, NY and Page Field Center will be that storied company’s first standalone location in Florida. With an average daily traffic of 60,000 cars, the U.S. 41 location between Colonial Blvd. and College Parkway is expected to attract up to five retailers, and signals a major revitalization of that central Fort Myers corridor.
Masciana served as the Chief Planner for the City of Rome, NY, under the direction of that city’s mayor from 1974 to 1981. As a general contractor, he went on to build and sell more than 100 two-family homes around JFK Airport, representing over $25 million in sales and the genesis of a life-long love for all things aviation. Masciana graduated with honors from Syracuse University with a degree in urban planning. His experience as a planner prepared him for the strenuous credentialing procedures associated with a build-out located directly across from a working airport and on top of land previously occupied by a gas station. No fewer than 10 aviation studies had to be performed by the FAA, in addition to the environmental study that came about as a result of the site’s previous use.
Each of the available storefronts offer approximately 1,400 square feet, with the possibility of spaces being combined. Rental cost is between $22 and $25 per square foot per year. In addition to its rich history, brand loyalty and quality food, Nathan’s Famous will be an enormous draw with its cobranding with Arthur Treacher’s Fish & Chips. Heavy traffic is bound to draw plenty of loyalty, especially with an innovative video drive-thru fast food experience offering an unprecedented emphasis on customer service. The days of talking to an empty box is over. Enjoy seeing the person you’re speaking too. Amongst the décor, hanging from the roof joist, will be a one-of-a-kind Nathan’s Famous-themed Yankee Clipper with a 30-foot wing span.
About Page Field Center
With 60,000 average daily traffic and an aesthetic that honors a proud local aviation history, Page Field Center is a retail magnet anchored by Nathan’s Famous, co-branded with Arthur Treacher’s Fish & Chips. Up to five retail locations are available, at $22 to $25 per square foot, annually. Contact Cushman and Wakefield at 239-489-3600 for rental information.
