A new soccer stadium in Port St. Lucie is expected to significantly impact the local economy, according to city officials and business owners. The main keyword, Port St. Lucie economy, is central to the discussion as leaders commit substantial funding to this redevelopment project.
Port St. Lucie Economy Set for Growth With Soccer Stadium Project
The City of Port St. Lucie has approved up to $27.5 million in tax increment funds for the construction of a new 6,000-seat soccer stadium. City officials confirmed these funds will come from Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Program – Port St. Lucie, which uses increased property tax revenue generated by the development, rather than the city’s general budget.
According to city documents, the stadium will anchor the 46-acre Walton & One project along U.S. 1. The initiative aims to revitalize eastern Port St. Lucie by creating a walkable, mixed-use destination with retail, commercial, office, and hotel spaces. This ambitious redevelopment is part of a larger vision, as highlighted in the major city center development announcement that outlines the transformative plans for the area.
Local Businesses Anticipate Economic Benefits
Business owners near the future stadium site are already preparing for changes. Kevin Sapp, owner of Sapp’s Barbershop, told reporters he expects increased foot traffic and visibility for his business and neighboring shops. “Looking out my window I’m going to see it,” said barber Focus Sanders, referencing the stadium’s proximity.
Employees at Agape Boba Tea, including Nicolle Chavez, anticipate more customers as game days draw crowds to the area. Chavez stated, “A lot of people, since there might be games there, they’re going to come here to this plaza and buy food and stuff.” This increase in visitors is expected to reflect similar patterns seen with other large-scale sports facilities, such as the recent unveiling of the P1 Motor Club’s major motorsports facility in St. Lucie, which has already begun to boost local business activity.
City Leaders Describe Stadium as Economic Catalyst
Mayor Shannon Martin, City of Port St. Lucie described the project as a key part of the city’s long-term vision. According to Mayor Martin, the stadium is only one aspect of a broader redevelopment plan designed to attract new businesses and residents to eastern Port St. Lucie. For more details on the city’s leadership and vision for this project, see the mayor’s announcement regarding the professional soccer team’s stadium plans.
“We will be able to see the stadium come to life and then we’re going to see the mix of uses come to life as well in terms of retail, commercial, office, hotels,” Mayor Martin said in a public statement.
Job Creation and Long-Term Impact on Port St. Lucie Economy
The Economic Development Council of St. Lucie County estimates the Walton & One project could create nearly 500 new jobs. Officials expect these positions to span construction, hospitality, retail, and stadium operations.
“You have to put money in to get money back,” said Sanders, expressing optimism about the investment’s potential to generate new revenue for the city. Chavez echoed these sentiments, stating, “This is like a big impact for the community, so I think the money is going to get used right.”
The stadium is scheduled for completion before the Port St. Lucie Sports Club men’s team begins play in 2027, according to city officials.
Funding Structure: Tax Increment Financing Explained
The $27.5 million city commitment will be funded through tax increment financing. According to city documents, TIF uses the increase in property tax revenue generated by new development to finance improvements in the same area.
Officials stated that this approach allows the city to reinvest in the district without diverting money from the general fund or existing services. The funds will be allocated as the property values rise, supporting the stadium and related infrastructure.
Community Response to Soccer Stadium Development
Local business owners and residents have voiced support for the project, citing expectations of increased economic activity. Sapp, whose barbershop is located within three to five miles of the stadium site, said, “Just the thought of the amount of walk-in traffic that it’s going to bring to the area” is encouraging.
“Bringing something that huge here is going to bring people, it’s going to bring revenue, it’s going to bring more businesses,” Sanders added. City officials have emphasized that the stadium and surrounding development are intended to benefit the entire community.
Stadium as Part of a Larger Redevelopment Plan
The new stadium is a central feature of the Walton & One project, which covers 46 acres along U.S. 1. According to city planning documents, the project will include:
- Retail and dining options
- Commercial office space
- Hotel accommodations
- Public gathering areas
Officials hope the combination of sports, business, and community spaces will transform eastern Port St. Lucie into a dynamic destination for residents and visitors.
Timeline and Next Steps
According to city officials, construction on the stadium is expected to begin after final design and permitting are completed. The goal is to have the facility ready for the Port St. Lucie Sports Club’s inaugural season in 2027.
Details may be updated as the project advances and further information becomes available from city agencies and the Economic Development Council.
Frequently Asked Questions About Port St. Lucie Economy
What is the expected economic impact of the new soccer stadium in Port St. Lucie?
The new soccer stadium is projected to create nearly 500 jobs and increase local business activity, according to the Economic Development Council. Officials expect more visitors and higher property values in the area.
How much is Port St. Lucie investing in the stadium project?
The city has committed up to $27.5 million in tax increment funds for the stadium, according to official city documents. This money will come from future increases in property tax revenue, not the general budget.
Are there other developments planned alongside the soccer stadium?
Yes, the stadium is part of the Walton & One project, a 46-acre redevelopment that will include retail, offices, hotels, and public spaces. City officials state this is designed to create a walkable, mixed-use area in eastern Port St. Lucie.
Can you attend games at the new Port St. Lucie soccer stadium?
Once completed, the 6,000-seat stadium will host games for the Port St. Lucie Sports Club men’s team, starting in 2027. The facility will also be available for other events and activities, according to city leaders.
Where are the main economic benefits of the stadium expected to be seen in PSL?
Officials expect increased economic activity in eastern Port St. Lucie, especially near U.S. 1 and the Walton & One development area. Local businesses within a three to five mile radius are likely to see more customers on game days and during events.
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