The Palaco Grande Association was founded in 1991 by roughly twenty-four individuals led by Michael Schneider-Christians and his wife Verena. They were dedicated to enhancing the beauty of their neighborhood.

Before the Association was formed, the mile-long Palaco Grande medians that stretch from Del Prado Boulevard to the river were sparse and unsightly. Rocks, sand and weeds once stood where the majestic palms now form a beautiful canopy over the rich green grass.  The residents were responsible for their upkeep, and much muscle, sweat and time went into keeping the medians beautiful.

In 2003, the residents of Palaco Grande got some welcome relief. The City of Cape Coral agreed to take over the maintenance of the medians. The residents were now free to concentrate on adding value to other areas of the Palaco Grande neighborhood, such as the cul-de-sacs at the ends of each of the streets. Many years have passed since the formation of the Association, but the goals of the organization have remained the same: beautification, safety, and the general welfare of all residents.

After Hurricane Charley damaged the original entrance sign, in 2005 the Association decided to replace the wooden sign with a more substantial lighted sign that would lend character and value to the area. The Association continued to add character and value to the area by adding landscape lighting to the medians along Palaco Grande Parkway. The lighting enhances the beauty of the lush landscaping the Association planted years ago. The lights also add an element of safety to the area during the evening hours. In 2008, the Association also added two stone entrance walls at the corner of Palaco Grande Parkway and Del Prado Boulevard. These improvements, along with the lighted sign at the entrance to the neighborhood, help set the neighborhood apart.

The Association has continued to invest in improvements that enhance the appearance and enjoyment of the neighborhood. A flagpole was installed near the entrance sign in 2011.  In 2020 and 2021, two book-sharing stations were added for residents to enjoy. Three mahogany-colored polywood benches were added in 2021 and 2022, including one near each library and another near the neighborhood entrance. A dog-waste bag station was also installed near one of the libraries as an added convenience for residents walking their dogs.

Beginning in 2022, the Association undertook a major effort to renovate and improve the neighborhood’s 16 cul-de-sac islands. The work has included improvements to nearly all of the islands and continues today.  

The Association uses a newsletter to inform owners and residents of issues of interest and to notify them of meetings. Membership is open to all residents and property owners in the Palaco Grande neighborhood.  Members meet four times a year, generally in January, March, September, and November.  Meetings usually include refreshments and a guest speaker, followed by business discussions.  This gives members a chance to meet others who share a common interest in the well-being of the neighborhood.

What will Palaco Grande do next to add character and value to the community? Watch and stay tuned; if history is any indication, there is surely more to come.