Thomas Peek, a person behind Ave Maria’s growth

Thomas Peek thought he might get a certificate or some applause as he retired as chairman of the Board of Supervisors for the Ave Maria Stewardship Community District. Instead, he was surprised by having a street named after him. 

“Certainly, I was surprised,” Peek said. “I didn’t know what to expect. I thought they might give me a certificate and that would have been fine. To have a street renamed for me, that was a big surprise. And I still don’t know quite how to react to that. It was very nice.” 

Peek has been chairman of the board since it was formed 20 years ago. He was selected for that position because of his expertise in creating a community. He is a retired partner of Wilson Miller Barton and Peek, a Naples-based professional engineering, surveying and planning firm.

“I knew something about the big picture of Ave Maria even though it had not started construction. I just thought it would be an interesting and enjoyable opportunity to see a new community grow up from just a farm field. It has turned out to be much more than anticipated,” Peek said.

For the two decades of guiding the community, officials wanted something special for Peek.  “Tom has had a long and storied career here in Southwest Florida,” said Blake Gable, CEO of Barron Collier Companies. “He has dedicated a lot of time as the town has grown from very few people to 15,000 people. We thought this was a wonderful way to honor a man who has given so much to that community.” 

David Genson, the developer’s representative to the board in Ave Maria, announced the road naming during Peek’s last meeting in November.  “We want to acknowledge all you have done for the district,” Genson began. “In recognition for your retirement, we got together and thought, ‘What is a good way to recognize the things Mr. Peek has done over the course of the years,’ so we are asking the board to rename Massa Way to Peek Way. Thank you very much for your service. It is very much appreciated.” 

The board presented Peek with a replica of the sign that will soon hang on the street. Peek held the new sign as he addressed the board and others at the meeting. “It has really been fun to be a part of watching this whole community grow from a plan to a reality and to just be amazed at what is happening, and I look forward to standing on the sidelines and watching it for the next 20 years,” Peek shared.