City of Port St. Lucie‘s Capital Improvement Plan 2025–2029 sets out a $615.3 million investment in infrastructure projects to support the city’s fast-growing population and evolving needs. The plan, unveiled by City Manager Jesus Merejo in April 2024, prioritizes utility upgrades, roadway improvements, stormwater management, and community amenities, with 136 projects scheduled over five years.

Overview of the Port St. Lucie Capital Improvement Plan

The Port St. Lucie Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) is a structured, five-year roadmap for public infrastructure and facility investments. The 2025–2029 CIP outlines 136 approved projects, selected from 174 proposals, totaling $615.3 million. This careful selection process reflects the city’s commitment to fiscal responsibility while addressing critical infrastructure needs. For a deeper look at the city’s growth and future, explore key facts about Port St. Lucie’s new development plans.

The first year of the plan (FY 2024–25) allocates $127.4 million to 72 priority projects. These initiatives are intended to address immediate needs and set the stage for future growth, while maintaining flexibility for adjustments in later years.

Strategic Alignment and Planning Process

The Capital Improvement Program is closely tied to Port St. Lucie City Council’s Strategic Plan, ensuring that investments align with citywide goals and priorities. Each project in the CIP includes detailed information on necessity, cost, financing, scheduling, and ongoing operational expenses. The plan is reviewed and updated annually, allowing city leaders to respond to changing conditions and priorities.

Projects are organized under strategic goal areas, such as Safe, Clean, and Beautiful communities, High-Quality Infrastructure, and Culture, Nature, and Fun Activities. This structure helps ensure transparency and accountability in how public funds are used.

Major Infrastructure Investments in Port St. Lucie

Utility System Expansions and Upgrades

Utility projects account for 42% of the CIP budget, reflecting the need to expand and modernize water and wastewater systems. Key investments include:

• Design and construction of a 10-million-gallon-per-day Rangeline Road Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant
• Multiple well construction projects, including three Western Reverse Osmosis Floridian wells and six Floridan wells for the new plant
• Two injection wells and one monitoring well at the Rangeline facility
• Final phase of the McCarty Ranch water quality restoration project (areas 7A and 7B)
• Citywide lift station replacements and various water main and force main upgrades

These projects aim to maintain reliable service, expand capacity for new development, and protect water quality in the St. Lucie River C-23 watershed. Port St. Lucie Utility Systems plays a leading role in these upgrades, ensuring the city’s infrastructure keeps pace with demand.

Road Network Improvements and Mobility Enhancements

Road and bridge projects make up 33% of the total CIP, focusing on reducing congestion and improving connectivity. Highlights include:

• Widening of SW Port St. Lucie Boulevard from south of SW Alcantarra Boulevard to south of SW Darwin Boulevard, scheduled for completion in summer 2025
• Utility relocations for Port St. Lucie Boulevard segments between Becker Road and Paar Drive, and Paar Drive to Alcantarra Boulevard
• Improvements to Midway Road from Jenkins to Glades Cutoff
• Expanded sidewalks and bicycle infrastructure

Mobility fees and the Half-Cent Sales Tax provide significant funding for these projects, supporting safer and more efficient travel throughout the city. Among the most celebrated upgrades are the recent improvements to Floresta Drive, which have enhanced connectivity and safety for residents.

Stormwater Management and Water Quality Projects

Stormwater projects are funded through the city’s Stormwater Fund and target both flood prevention and water quality improvements. Notable initiatives include:

• Large culvert replacements and property acquisition for water control access
• Veterans Memorial water quality treatment plan, with a new structure to detain and treat stormwater before discharge into the North Fork
• Installation of baffle boxes along SE Whitmore Drive, funded by a State Water Quality Assistance grant
• Watershed A & B improvements, supported by a Resilient Florida Grant Program $2 million grant

These efforts help manage flooding and improve environmental outcomes in Port St. Lucie’s waterways, building on milestone achievements in the Floresta Drive improvement that have set a benchmark for future stormwater and mobility projects. Oversight and support from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection further ensure that environmental standards are met.

Funding Sources and Financial Strategy

Bond Financing and Revenue Projections

The first year of the Capital Improvement Plan is balanced through a combination of bond financing, impact fees, and local revenues. However, the city projects revenue shortfalls in later years, with an unfunded requirement of $311 million over five years. City leaders have indicated that new or increased fees, as well as additional bond financing, may be needed to advance key projects.

Impact Fees and Sales Tax Revenue

The Parks Impact Fee Fund is expected to generate $15.1 million in FY 2024–25, supporting projects like O.L. Peacock Sr. Park Phase 2 and Torino Regional Park Phase 2. The Half-Cent Sales Tax is projected to provide $80.05 million over five years, with $16.9 million allocated for city-funded projects in FY 2024–25. This tax, which expires in 2028–29, is partly funded by visitors, reducing the burden on local residents.

Grant Pursuit and External Funding

Port St. Lucie’s Grants Advocacy Team actively seeks state and federal funding to supplement local resources. Recent successes include grants for water quality and stormwater projects. This strategy helps bridge the gap between available funds and the city’s growing infrastructure needs.

Strategic Goals and Quality of Life Enhancements

Public Safety and City Facilities

The CIP includes major investments in public safety, such as:

• Construction of phases II and III of the Police Training Facility
• Renovations to the Police Department main building and evidence building
• Installation of impact glass in the Police building

Other city facility projects include expansion of city hall, a new main parking garage, and replacement of chillers for city buildings. These investments support effective government operations and community safety.

Parks and Recreation Amenities

Several projects aim to improve recreational facilities and accessibility:

• Replacement of the playground at River Place Park with an inclusive, ADA-compliant facility
• Conceptual design of Torino Regional Park phase 2
• Drainage improvements and driving range upgrades at The Saints Golf Course
• Construction of new restroom buildings at Stars and Stripes Park and the Botanical Gardens
• Modernization of restrooms at the MIDFLORIDA Event Center

These projects are designed to enhance quality of life and support the city’s growing population.

Implementation Timeline and Future Considerations

First Year Priorities

In FY 2024–25, 72 projects are slated for launch, focusing on utility expansions, road improvements, and parks upgrades. City Council will tentatively adopt only the first year, with subsequent years serving as planning guides. Immediate priorities include the Rangeline Road Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant, Port St. Lucie Boulevard widening, and new playgrounds and restroom facilities.

Long-Term Planning and Financial Challenges

Revenue shortfalls are expected to begin in the second year of the plan, with the expiration of the Half-Cent Sales Tax in 2028–29 presenting a significant challenge. City officials are considering alternative funding strategies, including new fees and additional grants, to ensure continued progress on critical infrastructure projects.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Port St. Lucie Capital Improvement Plan

What is the Port St. Lucie Capital Improvement Plan?

The Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) is a five-year schedule of major infrastructure projects in Port St. Lucie. It covers investments in utilities, roads, parks, and public safety facilities to support the city’s growth.

How much will Port St. Lucie spend on infrastructure from 2025 to 2029?

The city plans to invest $615.3 million over five years, funding 136 approved projects. This includes $127.4 million for 72 projects in the first year alone.

Are there projects to improve water quality and stormwater management?

Yes, the plan includes several stormwater and water quality projects, such as the McCarty Ranch restoration and Veterans Memorial water treatment. Grants and city funds support these efforts to prevent flooding and protect waterways.

Can you see which road and park projects are planned for your neighborhood?

The city provides detailed project lists and maps online, showing the location and status of planned improvements. Residents can check the city’s official website for updates on specific projects.

Where are the biggest investments in Port St. Lucie’s Capital Improvement Plan?

Major investments are focused on utility system expansions, road widenings like Port St. Lucie Boulevard, stormwater upgrades, and new or improved parks and public safety facilities throughout the city.

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