Port St. Lucie is celebrating the substantial progress made on the Floresta Drive Improvement Project as of February 20, 2025. Funded by the community-backed Half-Cent Sales Tax, the venture has reached key milestones, completing its second phase and gearing up for the final phase.

Project Overview and Objectives

The Floresta Drive Improvement Project is a significant venture aimed at transforming over four miles of infrastructure, stretching from Southbend Boulevard to Prima Vista Boulevard. The effort is converting this corridor into a modern two-lane roadway, complete with enhancements like landscaping, lighting, sidewalks, and bike lanes to better serve residents and daily commuters.

Community Celebrations and Statements

On February 19, an event was hosted at the U.S. Submarine Veterans Park to celebrate the project’s progress. City officials, along with St. Lucie Council members and community partners, gathered to recognize the accomplishments. Vice Mayor Jolien Caraballo praised the partnership efforts, stating, “With an amazing team, we were able to balance safety and traffic improvements, while also creating a beautifully landscaped corridor.”

Phases of the Project

• Phase One: This initial and extensive phase kicked off in 2020 and covered Southbend Boulevard to Elkcam Waterway, reaching completion in 2022.
• Phase Two: Currently nearing completion in early 2025, this phase extended the project from Elkcam Waterway to Crosstown Parkway.
• Final Phase: Scheduled to begin in March 2025, this phase will push improvements further north from Crosstown Parkway to Prima Vista Boulevard. The last phase is set to conclude by Fall 2028.

Funding and Future Vision

This project is backed by a 2018 voter-endorsed referendum in St. Lucie County, which approved a Half-Cent Sales Tax intended for crucial infrastructure upgrades, including the transformation of Floresta Drive. Vice Mayor Caraballo highlighted the project’s role as a model for future developments, stating, “When it is complete, this will be the project we use as an example of future corridors as we continue to improve areas of the city.”

Conclusion

With its continued modernization projects, Port St. Lucie is poised to enhance transportation efficiency and visual appeal, affirming the city’s dedication to sustainable urban improvements. For more information or questions, residents are encouraged to contact the City at 772-871-1775 or visit the city’s official online portals for service requests.