Fort Myers

Fort Myers

General Information
Name	Fort Myers
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type	City
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates	26°37 N°81
Map
Population
Total	86,395
Density	auto per km²
Area
Total	126.9 km²
Land	105.6 km²
Water	21.3 km²
Government
Type	Council–manager
Leader	Kevin Anderson
Time Zone
Standard	UTC-5
DST	UTC-4

Fort Myers is a city located in Lee County, Florida, United States. It is the county seat and a major tourist destination within the state. The city is known for its historical estates, including the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, and its proximity to the Caloosahatchee River.

History

Fort Myers was established in 1886 and named after Colonel Abraham C. Myers. The city played a significant role during the Seminole Wars and later became a winter home for notable figures such as Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.

Geography

Fort Myers is situated on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River, which flows into the Gulf of Mexico. The city covers a total area of 126.9 square kilometers, with 105.6 square kilometers of land and 21.3 square kilometers of water.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Fort Myers had a population of 86,395. The city has experienced rapid growth due to its attractive climate and economic opportunities.

Economy

The economy of Fort Myers is driven by tourism, healthcare, and retail. The city is home to several hospitals and medical centers, making it a hub for healthcare services in the region.

Education

Fort Myers is served by the School District of Lee County, which operates numerous public schools in the area. Higher education institutions include Florida Gulf Coast University and Hodges University.

Transportation

The city is accessible via Interstate 75, which runs north-south through the region. The Southwest Florida International Airport provides air travel services to residents and visitors.

Culture and Recreation

Fort Myers offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities, including the Imaginarium Science Center and the Fort Myers Beach. The city hosts several annual events, such as the Edison Festival of Light.

Notable People

• Thomas Edison - Inventor and winter resident
• Henry Ford - Industrialist and winter resident
• Deion Sanders - Professional athlete

External links

• Official website of Fort Myers