McCOLLUM HALL

Historic Preservation & Redevelopment

McCollum Hall has stood for nearly a century as a beacon of community, creativity, and connection. The Fort Myers CRA is stepping forward to lead its restoration—directly, transparently, and with public trust at the center.

A Landmark Worth Fighting For.
A Future Worth Building.

McCollum Hall | Historic Preservation & Redevelopment

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About McCollum Hall

Built in 1938 by Clifford “Buck” McCollum, Sr., McCollum Hall was a commercial and cultural landmark in Fort Myers’ Dunbar community. Its upstairs dance hall hosted Black music legends like Duke Ellington and B.B. King and drew integrated crowds despite segregation. During WWII, it served as a U.S.O. for Black servicemen. After decades of decline, it was listed as eligible for the National Register of Historic Places in 1994.

Since 2008, the Fort Myers CRA has been restoring it as a community hub.

VALUE PROPOSITION

Advantages for the Community

  • Restore a long-standing local landmark
  • Reinforce revitalization along the Dr. MLK corridor
  • Ensure community voice is centered in planning and design
  • Build local capacity with CRA-led oversight and investment
Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency Logo

CRA’s Commitment

The Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has protected McCollum Hall since 2008: stabilizing the building, preserving its historic character, and ensuring it remains ready for its next chapter.
Each redevelopment attempt has brought new ideas and new lessons. Now, the CRA is ready to lead the project directly, using experience, public input, and a deep commitment to seeing it through.

overview

The 2006 & 2018 Dr. MLK Revitalization Plan prioritizes the redevelopment of McCollum Hall as a key community asset for the City.

impact

Restores a community enterprise. asset that will catalyze redevelopment on the Dr. MLK commercial corridor.

redevelopment area

MLK

project type

historic preservation

strategic priority

Provide meaningful and impactful incentives designed to spur development.

budget

Approved FY 2007-2008

plan

2018 Dr. MLK & VSSB Plan, Action Step #1

{§ 163.345 (2), Fla. Stat.}

Encouragement of private enterprise.

Project Timeline

The journey so far.

1938

McCollum Hall is built by Clifford ``Buck`` McCollum, Sr. and opens as a premier music venue and community hub.

2008

McCollum Hall is purchased by CRA to preserve legacy.

2008–2019

CRA reinvests $3M+ invested in structural stabilization, façade restoration, environmental remediation

Download a Photo Presentation of the Stabilization Effort

2020

First redevelopment effort stalls.

2022

New developer selected; concept unveiled.

2023

Project delays and funding challenges arise.

2025

Gap funding request denied, Development agreement expires; CRA reclaims full project leadership.

Now

CRA takes the lead on full redevelopment effort.

The Plan

How We Move Forward

Step 1: Refocus

The CRA assumes leadership of the project, begins internal planning, and confirms funding approach.

Step 2: Reimagine

Engage local residents and stakeholders to shape a plan that reflects the community’s present needs and long-term goals to develop new phased plan that honors history, maximizes community use, and supports economic vitality.

Step 3: Rebuild

Implement a phased restoration and activation plan with public transparency and progress updates at every step.

McCollum Hall History Mosaic | McCollum Hall | Historic Preservation & Redevelopment

Want to be part of this historic revival?

Be the first to hear about new plans, project milestones, and community events related to McCollum Hall.

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FAQ's

Why didn’t the last redevelopment plan succeed?

Despite early promise, market conditions and financial gaps created delays. The agreement expired before construction began.

Is the project moving forward?

Yes. The CRA is now leading the effort directly, building on past investments and community priorities.

How will the public be involved?

We will hold engagement opportunities throughout planning and implementation, and welcome feedback from all who care about the future of this site.

What might McCollum Hall become?

A community hub honoring its history: the final use will be shaped by community input and feasibility studies.

What funding is being used?

The CRA has already invested over $3 million and is evaluating additional public and private funding options.

How can I stay informed or contribute?

Sign up for email updates, attend upcoming meetings, and share your thoughts with CRA staff. This is your story, too.

Be part of the McCollum Hall revival.

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