Heart in the Park, the world’s tallest heart sculpture, now stands as a landmark in the Tradition community of Port St. Lucie, Florida. This striking 73-foot-tall stainless steel structure is a new symbol of unity and community spirit for residents and visitors alike.
Heart in the Park: Port St. Lucie’s Newest Landmark
The Heart in the Park sculpture is located at the intersection of SW Village Parkway and SW Discovery Way in the Tradition community. The installation was officially unveiled to the public on July 12, 2025, following a private ribbon-cutting and mass wedding ceremony in June 2025.
This monumental public art project was fully funded by Mattamy Homes as part of its commitment to public art. The total cost reached several million dollars, with the structure engineered in eight sections, each weighing over 50,000 pounds. The entire sculpture weighs more than 400,000 pounds, making it the tallest heart sculpture in the world.
Design, Engineering, and Symbolism
The Heart in the Park project was commissioned in 2021 and designed by internationally recognized artist JEFRË, based in Orlando. The design process and construction spanned five years, with the team overcoming material and shipping delays to complete the project.
The sculpture serves as a centerpiece for the Tradition community, representing love, unity, and the strength of community bonds. Its prominent placement and nightly illumination have made it a visual beacon throughout Port St. Lucie.
Engineering Feats and Construction Details
According to project details released by Mattamy Homes, the sculpture was engineered in eight monumental sections. Each section weighs over 50,000 pounds, contributing to a combined weight exceeding 400,000 pounds. The structure’s stainless steel construction ensures durability and a striking visual presence day and night.
Art and Community Engagement
Public art installations like Heart in the Park are recognized as catalysts for community engagement, local pride, and economic development. Experts in urban development highlight that integrating large-scale art with public health initiatives, such as CPR training and heart health pledges, can amplify the positive impact on the community.
The unveiling event included a mass wedding and vow renewal ceremony, underscoring the sculpture’s symbolic role in celebrating relationships and community bonds in Port St. Lucie.
Grand Opening and Community Events
The grand opening on July 12, 2025, featured a range of community-focused activities. According to event organizers, the celebration included hands-only CPR training in partnership with the American Heart Association and local firefighters. A heart-healthy pledge drive was also held, with donations matched by Mattamy Homes.
The plaza surrounding the sculpture, known as The Shoppes at the Heart, now offers new retail and dining options. This addition has further enhanced the area’s appeal as a gathering space for residents and visitors.
Ongoing Role as a Community Hub
The Heart in the Park site is promoted as a selfie spot and venue for ongoing community events. The sculpture’s nightly illumination serves as a visual landmark, drawing attention and fostering a sense of place within the Tradition community.
- Location: SW Village Parkway and SW Discovery Way, Tradition, Port St. Lucie
- Height: 73 feet, tallest heart sculpture in the world
- Material: Stainless steel, engineered in eight sections
- Total Weight: Over 400,000 pounds
- Funding: Fully funded by Mattamy Homes
- Artist: JEFRË, Orlando-based
- Plaza: The Shoppes at the Heart, with retail and dining
Impact on Port St. Lucie and the Treasure Coast
Port St. Lucie is part of Florida’s Treasure Coast, an area recognized for rapid growth and a strong focus on community well-being. The Tradition community, where Heart in the Park is located, is known for smart growth and innovation. The sculpture’s unveiling drew significant local participation and reflects the city’s ongoing support for public art and creative placemaking.
Urban development experts view projects like Heart in the Park as models for how private development can contribute to public spaces and cultural enrichment. The sculpture’s size and location are expected to make it a regional landmark and a lasting symbol of Port St. Lucie’s growth and values.
Public Art as a Catalyst for Community
According to expert perspectives, large-scale public art installations support identity, tourism, and civic engagement. By integrating art with health initiatives and community events, Heart in the Park demonstrates the evolving role of public spaces in enhancing quality of life throughout Port St. Lucie.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heart in the Park
What is Heart in the Park in Port St. Lucie?
Heart in the Park is a 73-foot-tall stainless steel sculpture located in the Tradition community of Port St. Lucie, Florida. It is recognized as the tallest heart sculpture in the world and serves as a community landmark.
How much did Heart in the Park cost to build?
The sculpture was fully funded by Mattamy Homes and cost several million dollars. The project included engineering, materials, and construction over five years.
Where is Heart in the Park located in PSL?
Heart in the Park is located at the intersection of SW Village Parkway and SW Discovery Way in the Tradition community of Port St. Lucie.
Are there community events at Heart in the Park?
Yes, the site hosts ongoing community events, including celebrations, health initiatives, and activities at The Shoppes at the Heart. The sculpture is also promoted as a popular selfie spot.
Can you visit Heart in the Park at night?
Yes, the sculpture is illuminated nightly and is accessible for viewing in the evening. The area is designed as a public gathering space for residents and visitors.
