Steven Mezynieski: Driving the Revitalization of Useppa Island

The sale of Useppa Island in late 2025 marked the beginning of an ambitious new chapter for this historic private island off the Southwest Florida coast. At the center of the transformation is Steven Mezynieski, a developer whose combination of technical expertise, practical leadership, and personal investment is setting the tone for the project’s success.

A Developer Who Leads From the Ground Up

What makes Steven Mezynieski stand out is his hands-on approach. When most think of island redevelopment, they imagine investors in boardrooms or executives giving directions from afar. Instead, Mezynieski is out on the ground — even operating heavy machinery at the island’s pier in the early days of construction.

That image captures who he is: someone who doesn’t shy away from the gritty details of a project. With a background in excavation, drainage, road construction, and land development in places like the Hamptons and North Fork, New York, Mezynieski brings decades of technical know-how. He’s the kind of developer who understands both the blueprint and the backhoe, which gives him a unique edge in tackling large-scale projects like this one.

Years earlier, he managed the restoration of a 24,000-square-foot potato barn in Tuckahoe, New York. By personally overseeing the work rather than outsourcing everything to a general contractor, he was able to save significant costs and keep the project tightly managed. That same direct style is now guiding his leadership on Useppa.

Preserving History While Building for the Future

Useppa Island is not just any piece of real estate. With roots dating back to the early 1900s, its structures and landscapes reflect a bygone era of Old Florida charm. Chief among them is the Collier Inn, built in 1911 by Barron Collier. For generations, it served as the island’s heart — a gathering place rich with history and character.

Mezynieski and his partners are committed to bringing the Collier Inn back to life, carefully reconstructing it from the ground up while keeping its original footprint intact. Every wood panel and block is being placed with respect for its history, but with modern reinforcements that will make it safer and more resilient. The goal is for the Inn to reopen in early 2026, restored to its former elegance but ready to withstand the demands of the future.

A $35 Million Reinvestment

Beyond the Inn, the new ownership group is overseeing a full-scale, $35 million revitalization plan for the island. The vision includes upgraded infrastructure, new amenities, and a financial model designed to keep operations sustainable long-term.

One of the first visible projects is the transformation of the area near the marina, where an interim beach has been created with thousands of cubic yards of fresh sand. This space will eventually evolve into a hurricane-resilient beachfront restaurant and bar — a modern addition that blends functionality with leisure.

At the same time, homeowner association fees and assessments are being adjusted to better reflect the true cost of maintaining and improving the island. Since Useppa is private, no tax revenue supports its upkeep, making these updates essential for long-term viability.

A Personal Connection to Useppa

For Mezynieski, this project isn’t just about business. More than a decade ago, he first visited Useppa with his family during a trip to nearby Cabbage Key. Over the years, he developed a fondness for its tranquil charm and timeless character. That personal connection fuels his determination to restore the island, not just as a developer, but as a steward of its legacy.

He is joined by fellow partners with their own ties to the island, creating a leadership team motivated not only by investment returns, but also by a shared love for what Useppa represents.

Meeting the Challenges of Island Development

Restoring an island is never simple. The logistics of moving materials, weathering Florida’s storm season, and reviving aging structures all pose challenges. But Mezynieski’s background in infrastructure and site work positions him well to tackle these obstacles. His decision to remain deeply involved in day-to-day operations allows him to problem-solve quickly, manage costs effectively, and ensure quality at every step.

The reopening of the Collier Inn will be one of the most significant milestones in the project, but it’s just one part of a broader vision. With each phase — from infrastructure upgrades to new amenities — Useppa edges closer to a future that honors its past while ensuring long-term sustainability.

Steven Mezynieski’s Mark on Useppa’s Future

Every redevelopment story has its leaders, but Steven Mezynieski stands out for being both a decision-maker and a doer. His reputation for rolling up his sleeves, combined with years of development experience, has positioned him as a key figure in Useppa’s rebirth.

As the island undergoes this $35 million revitalization, his leadership will likely become a case study in how to balance history, modern demands, and financial sustainability — all while staying true to the character of a place.

For those watching closely, the transformation of Useppa Island isn’t just about real estate or redevelopment. It’s about vision, resilience, and a personal connection to a place worth preserving. And at the center of it all is Steven Mezynieski, guiding the island into its next chapter.

Source: Gulfshore Business

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