A controversial high-rise development planned for South Hutchinson Island could dramatically reshape the local skyline, as city officials in Fort Pierce find themselves unable to halt the project due to Florida’s Live Local Act.
South Hutchinson Island Development Plans Exceed Local Height Limits
The proposed development at Causeway Cove Marina, located at 601 Seaway Drive, includes five high-rise buildings significantly taller than the area’s current 45-foot height limit. The tallest structure planned would reach 192 feet, making it among the tallest buildings on South Hutchinson Island.
According to submitted plans, the project will encompass:
- 1,066 apartment units
- 204 hotel rooms
- 2,326 parking spaces
- A 198-slip marina
- Tens of thousands of square feet of retail and commercial space
Florida’s Live Local Act Limits Local Authority
The controversial Live Local Act, passed by Florida Legislature in 2023, allows developers to bypass local government restrictions if at least 40% of the project is designated as affordable housing. This state law enables developers to construct buildings to the maximum height permitted within one mile of the project site, effectively overriding local zoning rules.
Fort Pierce city leaders expressed frustration at a recent city commission meeting, emphasizing their inability to intervene. Commissioner Michael Broderick described the law as “an end run to get around local government,” warning residents that more similar developments could follow.
Mayor Linda Hudson echoed these sentiments, noting that the Florida League of Cities had strongly opposed the legislation but ultimately failed to prevent its passage.
Detailed Breakdown of the Proposed Causeway Cove Project
The development comprises five distinct buildings, each significantly exceeding existing height restrictions:
Building A: Tallest Structure at 192 Feet
- 17 stories, including 215 apartment units and 204 hotel rooms
- 887-space parking garage
- 33,284 square feet of commercial space
- 27,779-square-foot convention center
Building B: Second 17-Story Tower
- Height of 186 feet
- 415 apartment units
- 440-space parking garage
Building C and D: Twin 14-Story Structures
- Each 127 feet tall
- 164 apartment units per building
- Combined marina amenities, retail space, and parking
Building E: 11-Story Residential Complex
- Height exceeding 118 feet
- 108 apartment units
- 178 parking spaces
Comparison to Previous Redevelopment Plans
This ambitious proposal sharply contrasts with earlier city plans for the area, known as “Causeway Cove Village,” which envisioned a much smaller-scale development. The city’s initial concept included a hotel with 80-120 rooms and condominium units in buildings no taller than seven stories.
However, the new private proposal far exceeds these modest heights, highlighting the significant impact of the Live Local Act on local planning.
Other Projects Affected by the Live Local Act
Nearby, another proposed development, “Boardwalk on the Inlet,” by local investor Sandy Woods, also seeks to exceed the 45-foot height limit. Unlike Causeway Cove, however, Woods’ project does not include affordable housing and thus does not qualify under the Live Local Act. It would require city approval for height exceptions.
Woods’ plan includes hotels, condos, restaurants, retail space, and an event center, but remains smaller than the Causeway Cove proposal.
Community Reaction and Next Steps
The Causeway Cove project has sparked significant community pushback, with residents voicing concerns over traffic, infrastructure, and the dramatic alteration of the island’s character. City officials have advised residents to direct their concerns toward state legislators responsible for the Live Local Act.
The project will undergo review by Fort Pierce City Commission‘s Technical Review Committee on May 15, 2025. However, the committee’s authority is limited to verifying compliance with state law, leaving little room for local input or modification.
Residents interested in similar ongoing developments can explore more about Port St. Lucie developers making progress on debated projects.
Frequently Asked Questions About South Hutchinson Island Development
What is the Live Local Act?
The Live Local Act is a Florida state law passed in 2023. It allows developers to bypass local zoning rules if at least 40% of their project includes affordable housing.
Where are the tallest buildings currently on South Hutchinson Island?
The tallest existing structures are the containment buildings at the St. Lucie Nuclear Power Plant, approximately 190-200 feet tall. Most other buildings on the island are significantly shorter.
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