Naples neighbors strike a fair compromise with Costco over new East Naples store

The Dispute That Held Up Costco’s Plans

After months of pushback, petitions, attorney consultations, and tense HOA meetings, East Naples neighbors have officially settled their dispute with Costco — ending what had quietly become one of the community’s most-watched land-use battles. The settlement clears the path for Costco’s new store planned near Hacienda Lakes, a project that had been stalled by concerns over traffic congestion, safety, and neighborhood impact.

Residents originally argued the store would overwhelm nearby intersections, direct delivery trucks through local streets, and erode home values. Some were prepared to sue to stop the development altogether, putting significant pressure on both Costco and Collier County officials.

But after weeks of negotiations, both sides agreed to terms that residents say don’t give them everything they wanted — but give them enough to avoid a lengthy (and expensive) legal fight.

What Made the Deal Work

Under the agreement, Costco will proceed with the store but must implement a list of specific improvements designed to address the neighborhood’s biggest concerns. Those include enhanced traffic-safety measures, added landscaping, and protections for the existing neighborhood entrance.

One of the standout points is Costco’s commitment to improve crosswalk signage, install additional signals where needed, and ensure large commercial vehicles avoid sensitive residential intersections. These were top-priority issues for families worried about safety along already-busy stretches of Collier County roadways.

Costco will also add new vegetation buffers to shield homes from headlights and parking-lot visibility, helping preserve the visual character of the area. The existing Hacienda Lakes brick entrance sign — a big point of contention when early designs showed it removed — will stay in its original location.

As part of the deal, the company will also contribute $35,000 to the HOA or CDD, money that can be used for community improvements.

While not all residents are thrilled, many admit the concessions were substantial enough to accept. Several who originally fought the project now call the outcome a “fair compromise” — especially compared to the uncertainty and cost of litigation.

What Next for Costco

With the settlement in place, Costco can finally move ahead. The company is expected to break ground in early 2026 once county permits and traffic-safety requirements are fully approved.

The store is projected to become a major draw for East Naples — delivering convenience, jobs, and a new retail anchor to a rapidly growing corridor. At the same time, neighbors are making it clear they’ll be watching closely to ensure Costco follows through on its commitments.

Local leaders believe the agreement is an example of how residents and major developers can find common ground without dragging issues into court. For a project that once felt destined for a courtroom showdown, a negotiated settlement may be just the type of win-win Collier County needed.