Neal Communities plans new homes on 788 acres in Alva area

August 19, 2026 - 20:56

Neal Communities has closed on a large tract of land in the Alva area, paying $34.1 million for 788 acres. The acquisition brings the developer's total holdings in the region to more than 1,100 acres, setting the stage for a master-planned residential community that could eventually include up to 1,099 homes.

The newly purchased property sits adjacent to land the company already owned, allowing for a cohesive development design that will weave together neighborhoods, open space, and natural preserves. Company officials say the layout will dedicate a substantial portion of the acreage to conservation, with lakes, wetlands, and native vegetation buffers woven throughout the residential sections.

Plans call for a mix of home styles, ranging from traditional single-family houses to more modern designs, all built around a series of amenity centers. Those will include a resort-style pool, fitness facilities, walking trails, and multiple parks. The community is also expected to feature a clubhouse with event space, catering to both active adults and families.

The project is still in the early planning stages, with site work and engineering studies underway. Neal Communities has not yet announced a specific name for the development or a timeline for when model homes might open. The company has a history of building in Southwest Florida, with dozens of communities already completed or under construction across Charlotte, Lee, and Sarasota counties.

Local officials have expressed cautious support for the project, noting that the developer's commitment to preserving natural land and incorporating stormwater management systems aligns with the county's growth guidelines. The area around Alva has seen steady demand for new housing, driven by its rural character and proximity to both Fort Myers and the river district. Neal Communities expects to file formal development plans with the county in the coming months.