Cape Coral Parks & Recreation

When the City of Cape Coral’s Parks & Recreation Department purchased a Stageline SL250 mobile stage in 2005, it wasn’t just about buying event infrastructure. It marked the beginning of a two-decade journey that transformed how this Florida city activated its outdoor spaces, engaged its community, and delivered professional-grade events — all while saving costs and building internal production capacity.

A Long-Term Strategic Investment
"We bought our SL250 in 2005," says Todd King, Cape Coral’s longtime Events Coordinator. "It lasted 20 years. That stage has gone out hundreds of times and paid for itself twice over."

Used 12+ times annually by Parks & Rec and another 20 times by nonprofits and community groups, the SL250 delivered consistent value. Technicians from the City handled operation and setup, avoiding high rental costs and giving the city control over its production standards.

"It’s a high-quality piece that we provide to nonprofits and community groups, making their events affordable and elevated. It’s a real return on tax dollars."

Why the SL250? Technical Credibility from Day One
The decision to go with Stageline was strategic. After consulting with Cape Coral’s local production companies and seeing the SL250 at an Orlando event, the department chose the unit for its balance of clean design, mobility, and rider-level capacity.

"We wanted something that would look the part for national events," explains King, "and still be manageable for city staff."

Even though national artist riders often request 40'x40' stages, the SL250 proved more than capable, with extensions and solid backline prep.

Upgrading to the SL260: A Natural Evolution
When Florida’s salt air finally forced the retirement of their SL250, the upgrade decision was obvious. In 2024, the department acquired a new SL260.
"The Stageline engineer inspected the SL250 and showed us the rust. We knew it was time. The SL260 was the natural next step."

Key features praised by Cape Coral:
• Redesigned fly arms and safer access to rigging
• Built-in LED underlighting ("They know what it’s like to be a tech at 2 a.m.")
• Covered wings that improve aesthetic and light effects
• USB ports and Gen-Z-friendly features
• Better hydraulics and streamlined deployment

"The lighting companies love the new covered wings. They trap haze and smoke, and the lights really pop. It looks incredible."

Built for Community Impact and Cultural Leadership
Cape Coral’s stage program has grown into a full-fledged production initiative within Parks & Rec. The department is no longer seen as just "lawn darts and Easter egg hunts" — it's producing concerts and events that rival professional venues.

"People are shocked it’s the Parks & Rec department behind these events. And when they find out the city owns the stage? There’s a whole new level of respect."

Lessons from 20 Years with a Stageline Stage
• "Prioritize maneuverability. We've set that stage up in every kind of location."
• "We're always taken care of—whether it's pins, accessories, inspections, or questions."
• "Good training makes all the difference."
• "Every piece of the build reflects technician insight."
• "Stageline actually listens. Our feedback loops into the next model."

Cape Coral’s experience shows what’s possible when a city invests in the right equipment and the right partner. "Whether you're a municipality, university, festival, or touring group, Stageline mobile stages are built to perform — and built to last"

Website: stageline.com