Any new developments at Baileys Shopping Plaza?

Question

Just curious from afar. Are there any signs of construction or prep work yet at the Baileys rebuild site? It’s going to be a BIG undertaking! We miss Baileys and look forward to shopping there again in the future.

Answer

Great question. Yes — there *are* new developments and plans underway for the Bailey’s Shopping Plaza on Sanibel, though progress is still in stages. Here's a detailed update based on the latest available info:

Current Status & Development Plans

The Bailey family received approval from the Sanibel Planning Commission to amend the master plan for the shopping center, including reconfiguring building placement, increasing vegetation buffers, and improving parking.
The redevelopment will include three new buildings: a raised central building for the new Bailey’s General Store, plus two side buildings for retail/tenant spaces (“Tarpon” side on Tarpon Bay Road and “Periwinkle” side on Periwinkle Way).
The new layout is designed to feel more like a park than a traditional strip mall — with open, pedestrian-friendly common areas, native landscaping, and a relaxed island vibe.
The main building will be elevated to meet updated flood resilience standards (post–Hurricane Ian), including a porte-cochère for easier loading/unloading in bad weather.
They plan to include EV (electric vehicle) charging stations in the parking area.
Some tenants will be returning, but others won’t — the family has stated that certain beloved restaurants or shops may not come back.
The redevelopment is estimated to take about two years once construction begins.
As of November 2025, the project is in the permitting and financing phase.
There is no movie theater coming back — the old Island Cinema will not be rebuilt.
Other past tenants, like the dry cleaner, are also *not* expected to return.

Partial Return: A Bit of Bailey’s

To bridge the gap while the main center is being rebuilt, the Johnson family opened a smaller market called “A Bit of Bailey’s” on Rabbit Road.
“A Bit of Bailey’s” offers many familiar items: deli salads, meats, cheeses, signature chicken salad and guacamole, grocery staples, wine, and some prepared foods — though it does not have a full-scale kitchen or bakery yet.
The smaller shop also has a coffee bar, returning a beloved part of the original store’s experience.
The opening of “A Bit of Bailey’s” is helping generate revenue to support the rebuild.

Community & Design Philosophy

According to recent reports, the design intentionally emphasizes sustainability and community — with native vegetation, open gathering areas, and buildings raised for resilience.

The total cost of the redevelopment is projected to be quite significant (locally estimated in the tens of millions), reflecting the family's long-term commitment.

Timeline

Permitting is largely complete.
Once construction starts, Richard Johnson (part of the Bailey family) suggested the main store might open 24–26 months later, potentially placing the grand opening in 2028.

The Take-Home:

Yes — there are very real signs of development at the Baileys Shopping Plaza site. While you may not see massive construction in full swing yet, the planning, design, and financing are actively progressing. The family is rebuilding thoughtfully, with a focus on resilience, community feel, and preserving the spirit of Bailey’s. In the meantime, “A Bit of Bailey’s” has reopened elsewhere on the island, giving locals and visitors a way to stay connected to the brand.