Date: January 15, 2026
Source: St. Lucie County Planning & Zoning Commission Hearing
1. Executive Summary
The Pruitt Commerce Center has reached a major milestone as the St. Lucie County Planning & Zoning Commission clears a hurdle for this massive industrial development. This project aims to redefine the “Jobs Corridor” along Kings Highway. In a unanimous vote, the board recommended approval for a Future Land Use amendment. Specifically, this will transform nearly 700 acres of former citrus research land into a hub that could bring over 2 million square feet of industrial space to the region.
2. Project Spotlight: The Pruitt Commerce Center
Developer: Ashley Capital (partnering with the county to develop the former Tucerda property).
Request Type: Future Land Use Amendment and a Comprehensive Plan text amendment.
Specifically, the site is located on the west side of Kings Highway and south of Orange Avenue. It comprises roughly 692 acres. The analysis presented to the board contemplates a massive Class A industrial park. At full build-out, it has a potential intensity of up to 2.4 million square feet.
Additionally, staff highlighted that this property served as a citrus research site for 50 years. Because the citrus industry is declining, the county is pivoting to industrial use. This shift capitalizes on the site’s proximity to the I-95 and Florida’s Turnpike interchanges. Traffic was a primary topic during the hearing. Consequently, estimates suggest the project could generate nearly 12,000 daily trips.
3. Infrastructure & Zoning Changes
Beyond the Commerce Center, the board addressed rural infrastructure. For example, they recommended changes to fencing regulations to support “rural character.” The commission voted to allow cattle and chicken wire fencing again for properties of at least one acre. However, this only applies to properties on private, unpaved roads. They also added a requirement for a signed-and-sealed survey for these fences. Owners may still use a single strand of barbed wire for livestock security.
4. What’s Next for the Project?
- Status: Recommended for Approval by the Planning & Zoning Commission.
- Next Step: The recommendation moves to the Board of County Commissioners for a final vote.
- Next Hearing: The Planning & Zoning Commission will meet again on February 19, 2026.
5. Investor and Resident Takeaway
The Pruitt Commerce Center represents a significant shift in the economic landscape of North County. Ultimately, St. Lucie is positioning itself to compete with the growth seen in Southern Grove. For real estate investors, this signals a long-term increase in demand. Nearby workforce housing and secondary commercial services will be needed to support thousands of new jobs.
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