New lodging and event space planned for Naples Causeway
Sunny Quintal wants to transform a building on the Naples Causeway into a thriving community hub. Quintal unveiled her plans for Causeway Commons, a mixed-use development featuring overnight accommodations and a small restaurant.
Going through the approval process with the Naples Planning Board, Quintal presented details about the 2,000 square-foot building that sits on 1.3 acres just off the causeway.
“It will be a gathering place for the town and for tourists,” Quintal said, envisioning a space hosting small weddings, anniversary celebrations, sip-and-paint events, or crafting workshops.
Initially, she plans to offer a boutique-style hotel with a small section dedicated to souvenirs. She contemplates eventually adding a restaurant. The building will be located near Shear Gratitude Boutique & Spa and Pearls Within.
While she prefers to call her venture an inn as it aligns closer to her vision, the Naples Planning Regulations only lists “hotel” as a permitted use. Even with her vision leaning toward a more intimate setting, she opted to use the term “hotel” for her application.
“The town of Naples doesn’t use the term inn. In my definition, an inn is smaller than a hotel,” Quintal explained.
“I don’t plan on serving breakfast. In the future, I would like to leave space for potentially more rooms,” Quintal said.
Quintal noted she would install a second septic system; the exact location still under consideration. She wants to prepare the property by removing one of the side doors and reconfiguring the landscaping to create additional parking.
“I would like to create a second curb cut so that people could enter the existing driveway, park out back and exit on the other side of the building,” she elaborated. To enhance the building’s appearance, Quintal plans to add dormers to the second story and paint the existing siding black with cedar highlights to create a more sophisticated look.
Planning Board member Marty Zartarian enquired about the restaurant’s capacity. Quintal planned for a small initial patio for guests and a seated restaurant that could hold between 50 to a maximum of 100 guests. Borrowing on the experience, she also expressed her desire to operate events for catered purposes (with no bar).
“We would not be open late for any event. I plan to be the first to close on the strip and they can move along,” adding that there would be no liquor license to offer.
Naples Municipal Planner Kathy Tombarelli reviewed regulation requirements. Parking regulations for a restaurant are based on the number of seats. “A restaurant is by seats,” Tree Line up with
“Already has a mixed use on the property. An inn with restaurant or retail. My memo is geared toward asking the questions to see what is out there. Currently an events [facility] is not allowed,” planner Kathy Tombarelli said. ‘What about an accessory use? In an inn that holds wine and cheese or sip and paint events’.”
“Accessory use wouldn’t change the ‘occupancy limit’ because it would be based on the restaurant occupancy,” Quintal remarked, clarifying her intention.
Her approach drew positive feedback.
Headed up by the board member said, “Sounds like an exciting project. I’m glad you are hiring an architect and engineers and not writing it all on a napkin,” said Planning Board member Martina Witts.”
Planner Boyer-Shertram added, “We are interested in what you are doing,” a sentiment echoed by the entire board
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* What is Laura’s opinion on the proposed restaurant addition to Causeway Commons?
This is very exciting news for Naples! Let’s talk to Laura, a local resident, about her thoughts on this new development.
**Interviewer:** “Laura, what are your initial thoughts on Sunny Quintal’s plan for Causeway Commons?”
**Laura:** “I think it’s a fantastic idea. Naples Causeway needs more unique places like this. Having a venue for small events and gatherings would be wonderful for the community and tourists alike. Plus, more lodging options are always welcome, especially those with a boutique feel.
**Interviewer:** “Are you excited about the possibility of a restaurant being added in the future?
**Laura:** “Absolutely! Having another dining option on the Causeway would be great. It sounds like Ms. Quintal really wants to create a welcoming atmosphere. I’m excited to see how everything comes together.”
**Interviewer:** “Do you think this development will have a positive impact on Naples?”
**Laura:** ”Definitely. It will bring more people to the area, support local businesses, and add to the overall charm of the Causeway. I think Causeway Commons has the potential to become a real destination spot.”
