Port St. Lucie plans to purchase land from the St. Lucie County School Board, aiming to set aside over 100 acres as green space. The Port St. Lucie City Council approved the acquisition, highlighting the city’s ongoing efforts to preserve conservation land and limit new residential development. This initiative follows a series of public meetings focused on expanding green spaces and responding to resident input.
Port St. Lucie to Purchase Land from School Board
On September 22, the Port St. Lucie City Council unanimously agreed to acquire three vacant parcels totaling 111.59 acres from the St. Lucie County Public Schools for approximately $11.675 million. The properties, currently classified as surplus by the school district, are no longer needed for future school expansion, according to district officials. This major land acquisition was officially approved as part of the City Council’s 105-acre land purchase plan, underscoring the city’s commitment to conservation.
Details of the Land Purchase Agreement
According to a statement from city spokesperson Scott Samples, the final plans for the properties have not yet been determined. However, comments during the City Council meeting and resident surveys suggest the land will likely be used for conservation or park purposes.
Mayor Shannon Martin noted during the meeting that “they do want us to spend funds on acquiring greenspace and conservation land, and we’ve been making great strides in doing so.” The mayor emphasized that city ownership of the land supports the council’s goal of reducing new home construction, reflecting resident preferences. In fact, the city recently rejected hundreds of new homes to focus on land preservation, aligning with these community priorities.
Locations of the Parcels
- One parcel is located between SE Southbend Boulevard and Florida’s Turnpike.
- The other two parcels are adjacent, found near SE Tiffany Avenue at SE Grand Drive and SE Walton Road at SE Belcrest Street.
Background: School Board Declares Land Surplus
According to St. Lucie County Public Schools spokesperson Lydia Martin, the land was originally acquired for potential school expansion. “However, based on updated enrollment trends and facility needs, the district determined the site was not required for future school construction,” Martin stated.
The school district will use proceeds from the sale to reinvest in existing school renewal plans, according to Martin.
Resident Input and City Development Goals
Surveys conducted by the city indicate strong public support for acquiring green space and conservation land. Mayor Martin highlighted that residents have consistently expressed a desire to limit new home construction in Port St. Lucie.
“Our residents have said that they don’t want more homes,” Martin said during the council meeting. The city aims to address these concerns by securing land for conservation rather than allowing private development.
City Council’s Conservation Efforts
- Acquiring surplus land to prevent residential development
- Responding to resident feedback on green space priorities
- Aligning city planning with updated community needs
Next Steps and Ongoing Planning
According to city officials, specific plans for the newly acquired properties will be developed in the coming months. City staff and council members will assess options for conservation, recreation, or other public uses based on resident input and environmental considerations. The Port St. Lucie Parks & Recreation Department may play a key role in determining future recreational uses for these lands.
Details may be updated as the city finalizes its plans for the land. Residents can expect further announcements as the process continues, according to official sources.
Frequently Asked Questions About Port St. Lucie Land Purchase
What is the purpose of Port St. Lucie’s land purchase from the school board?
The city plans to use the land for green space, conservation, or parks. This supports resident preferences and helps limit new home construction, according to city officials.
How much land is Port St. Lucie buying from the school district?
Port St. Lucie is purchasing a total of 111.59 acres across three parcels. The purchase price is approximately $11.675 million, according to city records.
Are the properties currently developed or vacant?
The parcels are currently vacant and were declared surplus by the St. Lucie County School Board. There are no existing buildings or active developments on these sites.
Can you visit the new green spaces yet?
No, the city has not finalized plans for public access or park development. Details about future use and access will be announced after planning is complete, according to city staff.
Where are the parcels located in Port St. Lucie?
One parcel is between SE Southbend Boulevard and Florida’s Turnpike. The other two are near SE Tiffany Avenue at SE Grand Drive and SE Walton Road at SE Belcrest Street.
Port St Lucie Talks
