On October 15, 2018, the City Commission approved a Statement of Interest to Brightline Trains LLC. The City of Fort Pierce highlights two existing properties in the proposal that are conducive for the new rail station. The properties include Depot Drive near the Citrus Bridge overpass and the H. D. King power plant site. Each property is situated near the heart of Downtown Fort Pierce, making it easier for passengers to utilize the free City parking garage and travel to one of Brightline’s convenient locations. The Statement of Interest also features ridership potential, development potential and all nearby amenities that Fort Pierce has to offer.
Local agencies such as St. Lucie County, the City of Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce Utilities Authority, Lawnwood Regional Medical Center, St. Lucie County Economic Development Council, St. Lucie County Chambers of Commerce and Indian River State College have expressed their unwavering support for the City of Fort Pierce to obtain a Brightline passenger rail station. "Earlier this month, the St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) unanimously endorsed the locations proposed by the City of Fort Pierce for a Brightline Rail Station becoming the first public planning agency in the Treasure Coast region to support Brightline. The St. Lucie TPO is a Countywide Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) responsible for transportation planning, programming, and financing of State and Federal Transportation Funds for the City of Fort Pierce, City of Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie Village, and unincorporated areas of St. Lucie County." - Peter Buchwald, Executive Director of St. Lucie Transportation Planning Organization.
Fort Pierce is perfectly positioned for a Brightline Rail Station. Extensive, dependable transportation and easy access is the key to growth, and Fort Pierce has both in abundance. All roads lead to Fort Pierce couldn’t be truer as the City is situated on the East Coast of Florida. From Orlando and Tampa to West Palm Beach and Miami, Fort Pierce is a stone’s throw away from its neighboring cities making it a short and accommodating trip to enjoy the uncrowded, peaceful gem.
The City of Fort Pierce was recently named top 20 most beautiful main streets of America by Readers Digest and was “compared to other notable small towns with charming main streets.” Fort Pierce is truly a diamond in the rough waiting to be discovered by those seeking an affordable and memorable experience. Small charm feel, beautiful waterfront and unspoiled beaches make Fort Pierce a competitive destination and easily rivals other big cities as the perfect getaway.