Port St. Lucie is set to welcome a new professional United Soccer League (USL) stadium, marking a significant development for sports and entertainment in the city. The Port St. Lucie USL stadium, planned for the Walton & One mixed-use site, will feature both men’s and women’s teams and is expected to open for the 2027 season.

Port St. Lucie USL Stadium Details and Project Scope

The new Port St. Lucie USL stadium will have a seating capacity of 6,000 and an estimated construction cost of $80 million. According to city officials, the stadium will occupy approximately six acres within the Walton & One development. This site is intended to serve as a new downtown hub, integrating entertainment, retail, restaurants, hotels, and housing.

The stadium is designed as an anchor project to stimulate further development and economic activity in the area. The first season for the Port St. Lucie Sports Club is expected to begin in 2027, with both professional men’s and women’s soccer teams participating in USL competitions.

Funding and Safeguards for the Port St. Lucie USL Stadium

City council has approved the stadium plan and operating agreement, with a second ordinance reading scheduled. The developer, Ebenezer Holdings, will fully fund the stadium construction. According to city officials, no general fund or taxpayer dollars will be used for construction.

The developer will be reimbursed through Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) revenue, not direct public funds. Safeguards are in place to protect the city and taxpayers, including contingency plans and performance-based reimbursements. The stadium operator will be responsible for all taxes, assessments, and operational costs, including security and traffic management.

Lease Terms and Future Options

The stadium operator will hold a 50-year lease with an option to extend for an additional 25 years. There may also be an opportunity for the operator to purchase the land in the future, according to official sources. These terms are designed to ensure long-term viability and stability for both the city and the stadium operator.

Economic and Community Impact of the USL Stadium

Experts view the Port St. Lucie USL stadium as a major catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and increased tourism. The stadium is expected to spark additional private investment and development in the surrounding area, supporting the city’s broader efforts to create a vibrant, mixed-use city center.

In addition to professional soccer matches, the stadium will host at least 24 city events annually, including concerts and festivals. City officials report that the stadium is intended to serve as a community asset, providing a central gathering place and enhancing Port St. Lucie’s cultural and recreational offerings.

Concerns and Considerations

While the project is widely seen as positive for economic development, some concerns remain about potential impacts such as noise and traffic, especially for nearby residents and vulnerable populations. City officials have emphasized that safeguards and operational requirements are in place to address these issues, and details may be updated as the project progresses.

Port St. Lucie’s Role in USL Expansion and Urban Development

The USL identified Port St. Lucie as a strong market for professional soccer, citing demographic growth, youth soccer participation, and regional sports demand. This aligns with broader trends in U.S. soccer, where new stadiums and teams are being established in growing markets.

Port St. Lucie’s population growth and rising interest in soccer reflect national patterns, making it an attractive location for USL expansion. The Walton & One development, with the stadium as its anchor, represents a shift from a suburban model toward a more urban, mixed-use environment.

The stadium and new teams are expected to raise Port St. Lucie’s profile regionally and nationally, contributing to the city’s identity and appeal as a destination for sports, entertainment, and community events.

Frequently Asked Questions About Port St. Lucie USL Stadium

What is the Port St. Lucie USL stadium project?

The Port St. Lucie USL stadium is a planned 6,000-seat professional soccer venue located within the Walton & One mixed-use development. It will host both men’s and women’s USL teams and a variety of city events each year.

How much will the Port St. Lucie USL stadium cost?

The stadium is estimated to cost $80 million, according to city officials. Construction will be funded by the developer, Ebenezer Holdings, with no general fund or taxpayer dollars used for building the facility.

Are there safeguards to protect Port St. Lucie taxpayers?

Yes, city officials report that safeguards include contingency plans, performance-based reimbursements, and requirements that the operator covers operational costs, taxes, and security. The developer is reimbursed only through CRA revenue, not direct public funds.

Can you attend non-soccer events at the Port St. Lucie USL stadium?

Yes, the stadium will host at least 24 city events each year, including concerts and festivals, in addition to professional soccer matches. These events are intended to serve the wider community.

Where is the Port St. Lucie USL stadium located?

The stadium will be built within the Walton & One development, a major city center project in Port St. Lucie. The site will include entertainment, retail, restaurants, hotels, and housing options.