Fort Pierce is now vying to host a Brightline train station after plans for one in Stuart encountered issues. Local businesses, including Michael Croke's 'Beach Bowls,' are supportive, with Croke stating, "I think it would be amazing for the business," according to CBS 12 News.
Fort Pierce, initially overlooked for a Brightline station in favor of Stuart, might have a chance as Stuart considers canceling their deal due to concerns about the $30 million cost to taxpayers. Stuart Mayor Campbell Rich estimates the cost could be as low as $13 million with potential agreements and grants. This could significantly benefit the city, and Fort Pierce is renewing its bid for the station, as WPTV reported on the evolving situation.
Residents backing the Fort Pierce bid believe the city’s central location would be a major advantage. Derrick Chisholm noted, "Here, it’s more centralized area in the Treasure Coast. People from Port St. Lucie, even Jensen Beach, all the way up to Sebastian, Fellsmere can get down here and get the Brightline and go to Orlando, Miami." Fort Pierce is seen as a potential hub for broader regional connections. Bunny Webb added, "We can't stay stagnant or the entire town will close down. We have got to move on. No question about that, it'll cause some changes to the community, but in the long run, I think it will enrich this community," on a statement obtained by CBS 12 News.
Fort Pierce City Manager Linda Cox stated, "Brightline is in the midst of active negotiations with the city of Stuart and Martin County. We have no intention of interfering with their progress to bring a station to the city of Stuart and the Treasure Coast. My comments to the city commission on Tuesday were simply to say that in the event that Brightline cannot come to terms with the successful proposer, the city of Fort Pierce stands behind its original proposal to locate the station in the city of Fort Pierce," according to WPTV. Stuart city commissioners are expected to make a final decision soon, with a meeting scheduled to discuss the matter and related agreements with Brightline and Martin County.
