The fate of a Brightline train station in Stuart, Florida, is uncertain after the Stuart City Commission rescinded two crucial agreements on September 9th. By a 3-2 vote, the commission revoked a ground lease that would have allowed Brightline to use 2.35 acres of public land near the Martin County Courthouse for a nominal fee and also rescinded an interlocal agreement with Martin County regarding funding for a new station and parking garage.
Brightline had selected Stuart for its seventh Florida station in March, surpassing four other St. Lucie County contenders. The company aimed to complete the station by 2026, with an estimated cost of $60 million, primarily funded from public sources.
Despite this setback, Brightline remains committed to establishing a Treasure Coast station. The company expressed confidence that the commission's decision doesn't represent the majority of business owners and residents who support the station. They plan to collaborate with other cities and counties in the Treasure Coast to determine the next steps.
"We'll work with all cities and counties in the Treasure Coast to determine next steps for a Brightline station," said Ben Porritt (Brightline Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs)
Fort Pierce officials are ready to step up and offer their city as a potential location for a Brightline train station. Acting City Manager Linda Cox expressed the city's interest to the City Commission last week amid news of Stuart's deal potentially falling through. Cox believes a Brightline station would contribute significantly to Fort Pierce's economic growth.
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