FORT MYERS, FL-In a sign of life for the Fort Myers market, Halvorsen Holdings broke ground on the first phase of a 70,000‐square-foot neighborhood shopping center. Dubbed Publix at Eagle Landing, the center is being built on about 20 acres of land.

“Publix at Eagle Landing will provide local residents with a premier grocer along with goods and services in a convenient, close‐to‐home location,” explains Tim Berg, president, Halvorsen Real Estate Corp. “With its close proximity to Interstate 75 and minimal competition, the center is positioned to be the leading neighborhood center in the area.”

The initial phase includes a 46,000‐square foot Publix Super Market and 12,200 square feet of small shop space ranging from 1,260 square feet to 1,440 square feet. The Publix will include an in‐store pharmacy as well as its typical specialty departments. What’s more, four outparcels are available for ground lease or purchase. The first phase is scheduled to open Spring 2012.