Everglades City
by Denise Wauters
For nearly a century, the Everglades City Train Depot has stood as a testament to the history and resilience of our community. Built in 1928, it served as a bustling passenger and freight hub until 1956, connecting our small town to the broader world. Over the years, the depot transitioned into cherished local businesses, including the Old Station Restaurant and the Everglades Seafood Depot, before falling into disrepair. According to Bill Odrey, the depot’s current owner, he stepped in just in time to save it from being destroyed and replaced by 16 condos. Today, thanks to his determination and the generosity of local companies and donors, the depot is being restored.

Odrey, who relocated to Everglades City from Naples, has made this project his life’s work. “It took a long time to get here, but I was relentless,” he said, recounting his years of struggle navigating city and county jurisdictions and facing financial hurdles. Selling his Naples home to fund the restoration, he’s working to transform the depot into a centerpiece for the town, offering new opportunities for both residents and visitors.
Restoring History and Supporting the Community
The restoration process is a collaborative effort. Companies like Carlisle SynTec and Crown Tile have stepped up, donating high-quality roofing and tile materials, and Odrey is actively seeking additional support for soffit and fascia. Roof repairs are the top priority, with completion targeted by the end of 2025.
The plans for the 20,000-square-foot building include a restaurant, event space, and eventually a hotel, all aimed at providing an all-inclusive experience for visitors and creating jobs for locals.
Odrey is keen to make the depot a community asset. He’s reached out to local schools to offer the depot’s kitchen for culinary training programs and is eager to see the space used for special events and gatherings. “I want this building to be a venue the community can rely on,” Odrey said. His goal is to make the depot a place where both locals and tourists can come together, fostering connections and growth.
Preserving the Spirit of the Depot
While Odrey envisions a vibrant future for the depot, he is committed to honoring its past. Restoration efforts are focused on maintaining the original design as much as possible, preserving the unique character that makes the depot a local treasure. Local artist Paul Arsenault has captured the depot’s charm in his artwork, further showcasing its significance to the community.
A Vision for Everglades City
Odrey’s dedication to the depot extends beyond its physical restoration. He believes the building has the potential to transform the town’s economic landscape. By creating a venue capable of hosting large events, accommodating international visitors, and providing unique dining experiences, the depot can become a hub for both commerce and culture.
The building’s sturdy structure, which has never flooded, even offers the potential for adding another story. “This place can handle it,” Odrey said, reflecting on the depot’s resilience and potential.

A Shared Community Project
Odrey’s efforts to restore the depot are more than just a personal mission; they’re an opportunity for Everglades City to come together. By preserving this piece of history, the town is not only safeguarding its past but also creating a resource for future generations. Odrey encourages community members to get involved, whether by volunteering their time or sharing ideas for how the space can best serve the town.
“This building is for the people of Everglades City,” Odrey said. “It’s about bringing everyone together to create something meaningful.”