Southern Grove jobs corridor is transforming economic development in Port St. Lucie, offering one of South Florida’s largest and most competitive sites for business expansion. The area’s scale, infrastructure, and strategic location are central to the city’s long-term growth plans.
Southern Grove Jobs Corridor: Key Facts and Market Impact
Southern Grove is a 3,605-acre section within the broader 8,200-acre Tradition area of Port St. Lucie, Florida. The jobs corridor is designed to support over 22,500 jobs across a range of industries, including manufacturing, logistics, retail, office, hospitality, healthcare, and research.
The area includes more than 10 million square feet of planned office, industrial, warehouse, and retail space. According to city officials, Southern Grove is the only large, development-ready commercial and industrial land parcel of its kind in Port St. Lucie and all of South Florida.
The current estimated market value of Southern Grove exceeds $225 million. Projections indicate the value could surpass $2 billion at 80% build-out, reflecting the area’s potential as a regional economic driver.
Background: Southern Grove’s Role in Port St. Lucie’s Economic Strategy
Southern Grove was originally part of a large-scale development plan by Core Communities. Following a default during the 2010 real estate downturn, ownership transferred and the site’s purpose shifted to employment-focused development.
Since 2004, the City of Port St. Lucie has designated Southern Grove as a jobs corridor and employment center. City officials report this designation is intended to drive economic growth and diversify the local economy, reducing reliance on residential development alone.
Southern Grove benefits from high visibility and direct access to Interstate 95. Infrastructure for utilities and transportation is already in place, supporting rapid build-out and tenant attraction.
Current Developments in the Southern Grove Jobs Corridor
The City of Port St. Lucie is actively transitioning ownership and development responsibilities to experienced developers and joint venture partners. This shift is expected to accelerate the pace of construction and investment throughout the corridor.
Major projects underway or planned include a new 400,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, distribution centers, and headquarters for large companies. The Tradition Center for Innovation and Tradition Center for Commerce serve as anchors, featuring medical, educational, and bioscience institutions.
City officials are updating the master plan, conducting market studies, and refining property disposition strategies to maximize economic impact. Infrastructure bond debt from previous development remains a financial consideration, with annual payments scheduled through 2045.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Southern Grove’s completed infrastructure for roads, utilities, and drainage supports large-scale commercial and industrial projects. Addressing remaining connectivity and drainage challenges is a priority for city planners and developers.
Public-Private Partnerships
The city’s proactive planning includes partnerships with private developers and businesses. These collaborations aim to ensure timely, coordinated development and to overcome delays experienced in previous years.
Expert Perspectives on Southern Grove’s Economic Potential
Economic development experts view Southern Grove as a rare opportunity for large-scale job creation in South Florida. The site’s size, location, and infrastructure make it highly competitive for attracting major employers and diverse industries.
There is consensus that a sustainable, mixed-use corridor integrating employment, residential, and commercial uses is key to long-term success. The transition to specialized developers is expected to accelerate build-out and ensure the area reaches its economic potential.
Market Position and Regional Impact
Port St. Lucie’s population has grown rapidly, now nearing 240,000 residents. This makes it the third most populous city in South Florida and the sixth largest in Florida. The city’s location between major metro areas and airports positions Southern Grove as a key driver of regional economic development.
The jobs corridor is designed to reduce economic reliance on residential growth by fostering high-wage employment and business diversification. City officials indicate that Southern Grove’s evolution reflects broader trends in Florida toward mixed-use, employment-focused corridors that support both local and regional prosperity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Grove Jobs Corridor
What is the Southern Grove jobs corridor in Port St. Lucie?
The Southern Grove jobs corridor is a 3,605-acre section within the Tradition area of Port St. Lucie, planned for large-scale commercial and industrial development. It is designed to support over 22,500 jobs and more than 10 million square feet of business space.
How much is Southern Grove worth?
The current estimated market value of Southern Grove is over $225 million. Projections show the value could exceed $2 billion when 80% of the area is developed.
Are there major companies or institutions in Southern Grove?
Yes, major projects include a 400,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, distribution centers, and headquarters for large employers. The Tradition Center for Innovation and Tradition Center for Commerce anchor the area with medical and bioscience institutions.
Can you live near the Southern Grove jobs corridor?
Southern Grove is primarily focused on employment and business uses, but the surrounding Tradition area includes residential neighborhoods and amenities. The corridor is part of a larger mixed-use development plan.
Where are the main access points to Southern Grove?
Southern Grove has direct access to Interstate 95 and is located within the Tradition area of Port St. Lucie. Infrastructure for transportation and utilities is already completed, supporting easy access for businesses and employees.
