Southwest Florida Housing Foundation breaks ground on The Arwyn

The Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers’s nonprofit development arm, Southwest Florida Housing Foundation, broke ground on The Arwyn, a 230-unit family housing community that will replace the former Horizons Apartments.

The Housing Authority and Foundation team gathered with community leaders, project partners and supporters on Feb. 10 for the groundbreaking. The reimagined community is inspired by a shared commitment to creating a brighter future for residents, shaped by the voices of the people who call this area home.

The Arwyn will feature a wide range of upgraded amenities, including a 4,396-square-foot clubhouse, community gardens, covered pavilions with grilling areas, a spacious dog park and in-unit washers and dryers, all designed to support connection, convenience and everyday quality of life.

“We are excited to break ground on The Arwyn, reflecting our continued commitment to the families we serve,” said Marcia Davis, executive director of the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers. “By investing in safe, high-quality and affordable housing, we are strengthening our community and creating places where families can thrive for generations to come.”

The project is being completed in partnership with Tre Bel Housing and Procida and is financed by J.P. Morgan Chase. Completion of the site is slated for late 2027.

“I am extremely excited to partner with Marcia Davis and the City of Fort Myers Housing Authority to provide brand-new, 100% affordable housing to the city. It brings me so much joy and satisfaction knowing that I, along with my partner Procida Development Group, can positively impact the lives of the families within Fort Myers by providing them with an elevated standard of living through The Arwyn,” said Jonathan Vilma, founder of Tre Bel Housing. “It’s my expectation that The Arwyn will be the benchmark for all affordable housing developers looking to provide housing within the City of Fort Myers. We must all be thoughtful and intentional about raising the quality of living for those citizens who need it most, and it starts with The Arwyn.”