Chapter 163 of the Florida Statutes requires each Community Redevelopment Agency to provide an annual report by March 31 of each year to the Governing Body. The following AnnualReportincludesaccomplishmentsandfinancialdataforFiscalYear2025.
OURHISTORY
ToguidetheCityinitseffortstoredevelopboththephysicalandeconomicenvironmentofitsDowntown,theCity established the Fort Pierce Redevelopment Agency (FPRA) in 1982 with the adoption of Ordinance No. H-239. Notingthatotherareasofthecommunityalsoneedtargetedredevelopmentactivityaswell,theCityCommission expandedtheboundariesoftheRedevelopmentAreain1995&1996toincludetheareassouthofAtlanticAvenue toCitrusAvenueandDelawareAvenue.SeeingthesuccessoftheFPRAinencouragingredevelopmentwithinthe City’scoreandnotingthestateofdeclineforotherareasoftheCity,theCommissionsubstantiallyexpandedthe boundariesoftheRedevelopmentAreaagainin2000toincludetheneighborhoodswestof7thStreet,thePort, andSouthBeach.
The foundation begins with the FPRA itself, providing leadership, governance, and the framework necessary to move initiativesforwardacrossitsdistricts.
Clear, actionable planning continues to progress,ensuringthatcommunityvisiontra intoimplementableprojectsreadyforexecuti
Real progress begins long before results are visible. Fiscal Year 2025 marks a pivotal shift for the Fort Pierce Redevelopment Agency (FPRA), from planning to progress. While visioning and strategy remain essential, this year reflectsadeliberatemovetowardimplementation.Long-standingplansarebeingadvanced,partnershipsarealigning, andprojectsarebeginningtotakeshapeinvisible,meaningfulwaysacrossthecommunity.
Where strategic programs reduce barriers, encourage privateinvestment,andsupportlong-termreinvestment.
Public safety initiatives are reinforcing a secure environment, supporting redevelopment efforts and ensuring that residents, businesses, and visitors feel confidentandconnected.
ConnectingtheCity: InfrastructureandMobility
Infrastructure improvements are strengthening connectivity, improving safety, and enhancing how peoplemovethroughandexperienceFortPierce.
TheFortPierceRedevelopmentAgencyBoardconsistsoffive(5)memberswhoalsos as the Mayor and City Commission. The purpose of the Agency is to revitalize both onmentoftheredevelopmentarea.
CRAADVISORYCOMMITTEE
TheCRAAdvisoryCommitteeprovidesrecommendations andguidanceonmattersrelatedtothegoalsoftheFort Pierce Redevelopment Agency and serves as a liaison betweentheFPRABoardandthecommunitywithinthe redevelopmentdistrict.
BUILDINGSTRONGERCOMMUNITIES
FPRA STAFF
Richard D. Chess, MBA
FPRA DIRECTOR
FPRA staff implement the goals and strategies outlined intheCommunityRedevelopmentPlan,guidingprojects and initiatives throughout the redevelopment district. Proposed projects and activities are presented to the FPRA Board and CRA Advisory Committee for input, val.
ent revenue funding directly bac community, supporting projects, infrastructure, and programs that drive economic growth and reduceblightwithoutincreasingtaxes.
BLUEPRINTFORTHEFUTURE
PROJECT:OldSt.AnastasiaMasterPlan
LOCATION:PeacockArtsDistrict
TheFPRAistransformingvisionintoactionthroughtheOld St.AnastasiaMasterPlan,akeyinitiativewithinthePeacock Arts District. Guided by extensive community engagement and stakeholder input, the project focuses on revitalizing the historic Old St. Anastasia School building and its surroundingpropertiesintoavibrant,multi-usedestination. Theplanexploresopportunitiesforadaptivereuse,cultural programming, and community-centered spaces while preserving the site’s historic character. This effort reflects FPRA’scommitmenttotransformingunderutilizedassets.
PROJECT:SecondStreetRedevelopment
LOCATION:DowntownDistrict
The FPRA continues moving from planning to implementation through the 2nd Street Redevelopment project, a key priority identified in the Downtown Master Plan. Shaped by extensive community input, the project reimagines the corridor as a more walkable, flexible space designed to support daily activity, local businesses, and events, while enhancing the overall look and feel of downtown. This effort reflects a broader shift toward executing long-standing plans and delivering visible improvementsintheurbancore.
PROJECT:LincolnParkMasterPlan
LOCATION:LincolnParkDistrict
The FPRA is leading a renewed vision for the Lincoln Park neighborhood in partnership with the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council, grounded in meaningful community engagement. Through direct input from residents, the planning process is identifying priorities for housing, amenities, and reinvestment, ensuring future investment reflects the needs of the community and benefits current residents. This effort lays the foundation for long-term revitalization while honoring the neighborhood’shistoryandcharacter.
PROJECT:MarinaSquare
LOCATION:DowntownDistrict
AsakeyinitiativeoftheDowntownMasterPlan,theFPRAis advancing the transformation of Marina Square into a flexible, multi-use waterfront destination designed to support events, recreation, and everyday community use while strengthening connections between downtown and theIndianRiver.
PROJECT:WesternPeninsulaCh
LOCATION:SouthBeachDistrict
The FPRA Board accepted the Western P as a guiding vision for the future rede former wastewater treatment plant site area. Developed through extensive pu market analysis, and a collab i d charrette established a clear decision-making and investme area for thoughtful, long-term r communitypriorities.
KeyHighlights
KeyHighlights
Master Plans are laying the foundation for the futureofFortPierce.Connectingneighborhoods, enhancing waterfronts, and supporting longtermgrowth.
MasterPlan
MasterPlan
Activatesthewaterfront&riverfrontconnections
Designedforevents,markets&dailyuse
Fl ibl l i i l k pace yengagement rPlanvision
Conceptualframeworkforfu
Community-driventhroughpubliccharretteprocess
Enhanceswaterfrontaccess&connectivity
Encouragescompatibleprivateinvestment
Promotesresiliencyandlong-termplanning
BUILDINGSTRONGNEIGHBORHOODS
CATION:LincolnParkDistrict 424DOUGLASCT.
TheFPRAcontinuestoadvanceneighborhoodrevitalization through the strategic disposition of surplus properties within the FPRA District. By making FPRA-owned parcels available for redevelopment, the program encourages private investment, supports infill housing, and returns underutilizedlandtoproductiveuse.
In FY25, two surplus properties were successfully redeveloped with the construction of new single-family homes. The homes have since been sold and are now occupiedbyfamilies,bringingnewlifetotheneighborhood while contributing to housing availability and continued reinvestmentinthecommunity.
OJECT:AvenueDModelBlock
TheAvenueDModelBlockrepresentsamajormilest advancing workforce housing through publicpartnership.IncoordinationwithSt.LucieCounty,theFPRA helped lead a joint solicitation process that resulted in a ground lease with Pinnacle Communities to develop a 90unit affordable housing project. This project directly addressesthegrowingdemandforattainablehousingwhile demonstratingaproactive,partnership-drivenapproachto redevelopment.
PROJECT:OaksatMoore’sCreek
LOCATION:LincolnParkDistrict
TheOaksatMoore’sCreekPhaseIIcontinuestodelivernew single-family homes along Means Court between Avenue B and Moore’s Creek. Each home includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms, with floor plans ranging from approximately1,200to1,700squarefeet.
Fourhomeshavebeencompletedat317,314,318,and319 Means Court, marking a key milestone in the project’s progress. These homes provide safe, high-quality, and attainable housing for income-qualified, first-time homebuyers, supporting homeownership and long-term stability.
CRAFTINGCOMMUNITY
PROJECT:SunriseCenterEventSpace
LOCATION:DowntownDistrict
TheFPRAprovidedfundingtosupportthedevelopmentofconceptualdesignsfor thetransformationofthe4thflooroftheSunriseCenterintoaflexiblecommunity meeting and event space. The proposed concept envisions a modern, multipurpose venue capable of hosting meetings, workshops, conferences, and community events. Key elements of the concept include flexible meeting areas, updatedfinishes,improvedlighting,andtechnologytosupportpresentationsand programming.Thisprojectrepresentsanopportunitytoactivateanunderutilized space while supporting community engagement and activity within the FPRA District.
PROJECT:Florid
LOCATION:Linco
RenovationstothefutureCityofFortPierceFloridaHighwaymenMuseumat1234AvenueD made significant progress between October 2024 and September 2025. Major structural, mechanical,andlifesafetyupgradeswerecompleted,includinganewmainentrance,rebuilt staircase,HVACsystems,electricalandplumbingwork,firesprinklers,andsecuritysystems. Interiorimprovementsincludedupdatedkitchenandrestrooms,newflooringandcabinetry, ADAenhancements,andmodificationstosupportgalleryspaces.
Exterior sitework advanced, and cultural elements were incorporated through a Highwaymen-themedmuralandfourmosaicbenchesforthepavergarden.Bytheendofthe period, the project was approximately 95% complete, with final inspections and finishing touches underway. Once complete, the museum will serve as a cultural anchor, enhancing theAvenueDcorridorandcreatingnewopportunitiesforresidentsandvisitors.
The FPRA Commercial Façade Grant Program continues to support property and business owners in improving the exteriorappearanceofcommercialbuildingswithintheFPRA District. During Fiscal Year 2025, eight (8) grants were awarded, representing a total funding commitment of $150,742 to support exterior renovations and aesthetic improvements that enhance the overall appearance of the districtandencouragecontin
PROGRAM:CommercialSignGrants
LOCATION:FPRA
The FPRA Commercial Sign Grant Program assists business and property owners in enhancing their storefronts by providing financial assistance for new or improved signage. Improved signage helps increase business visibility, strengthen branding, and contribute to the overall appearanceoftheredevelopmentdistrict.
PROGRAM:ImpactFeeMoratorium
LOCATION:FPRA
To encourage investment, the City implemented a targetedimpactfeemoratoriuminkeyareas,creating more favorable conditions for development. This initiative supports project feasibility, promotes new construction,andacceleratesprivateinvestment.
CONNECTINGTHECOMMUNITY
PROJECT:IndianRiverDriveCorridorImprovements
LOCATION:DowntownDistrict
ProjectCost:$10,254,124
FPRAContribution:$3,000,000
TheIndianRiverDriveImprovementsProjectisamajorinvestmentinakeywaterfront corridor connecting downtown to surrounding neighborhoods and destinations. Supported by FPRA and state funding, the project includes roadway reconstruction, enhanced pedestrian and bicycle facilities, streetscape upgrades, lighting, landscaping,andadditionalparking.
Th i t ill h afety, accessibility, and mobility while creating a eway into downtown. The project supports the ntinued revitalization of Fort Pierce’s waterfront, ary2027.
PROJECT:JCPenneyParkingLot
LOCATION:DowntownDistrict
AspartoftheFortPierceRedevelopmentAgency’songoing redevelopment efforts, key initiatives continue to enhance connectivity, economic development, and infrastructure throughoutthecity.
The renovation of the Old JCPenney parking lot was completed in FY24, delivering improved functionality and increased capacity to support activity in the downtown area. In FY25, additional enhancements including the installation of dumpster enclosures and curbing were finalized, giving the site a more cohesive and finished appearance.
The parking lot provides 87 spaces, including 6 ADAaccessible spaces and enhances access for residents and ,andcontributestothe undingarea.
PROJECT:AvenueDParkingLot
LOCATION:LincolnParkDistrict
Construction of the Avenue D parking lot was completed, featuring permeable pavers, new landscaping, and the addition of two centrally located live oak trees. Final site amenities, including a custom bike rack and bench, enhance both functionality and visualappeal.
LocateddirectlyinfrontofthePoliceSubstationandthe HighwaymenMuseum,thenewparkinglotsignificantly improvesaccessibilityandconvenienceforvisitors.This investmentsupportstheLincolnParkareabyenhancing the visitor experience and contributing to the overall revitalizationofthecorridor.
PROJECT:AvenueDCorridor
LOCATION:LincolnParkDistrict
ProjectCost: $4,072,873.50
FPRAContribution:$1,500,000
The Avenue D Reconstruction project reflects continued investment in critical infrastructure to support long-term redevelopment goals. By improving roadway conditions, safety,andfunctionality,theprojectenhancesthecorridor’s usabilityforresidentsandbusinesseswhilepositioningthe areaforfuturegrowthandreinvestment.
FREEBEE
PROGRAM:Freebee
LOCATION:FPRA
The program continues to be especially popular among workingage adults, with the highest usage among ages 21–34, followed closely by ages 35–50. These trends highlight Freebee’s importanceasareliabletransportationoptionfordailycommutes, errands, and access to local businesses and waterfront destinations.Asdemandcontinuestogrow,theserviceremainsa key component in supporting economic activity, improving accessibility, and strengthening overall connectivity within the community. 3.4
PROJECT:HarbourPointe
LOCATION:Fisherman’sWharfDistrict
Recognizing the waterfront as a defining community asset, the FPRA formalized a partnership with St. Lucie County through a waterways interlocal agreement to advance priority projects. This includes a commitment of up to $500,000 toward Harbour Pointe Park, supporting the developmentofanewboatrampandimprovedwaterfront amenities. The project expands public access to the water whilereinforcinglong-termgoalstoactivatethewaterfront andenhancepublicspaceswithintheredevelopmentarea.
KeyHighlights
PROJECT:DelawareAvenue&33 Street IntersectionImprovements rd
LOCATION:FPRA
The FPRA is partnering with St. Lucie County to advance targeted safety and connectivity improvements at the DelawareAvenueand33rdStreetintersection.Throughthis collaboration, the project reconfigures roadway geometry, enhances pedestrian facilities, and updates traffic operations to better serve both drivers and pedestrians. This investment addresses long-standing safety concerns while improving how residents move through the area, reinforcing the FPRA’s commitment to safer, more connectedneighborhoods.
KeyHighlights
PROJECT:SmartCity
LOCATION:DowntownDistrict
Expanding digital connectivity across downtown Fort Pierce, the Smart City Initiative enhances how residents, businesses, and visitors access information and stay connected. Through expanded fiber infrastructure and public Wi-Fi in key areas like the River Walk Center, this effort strengthens everyday connectivity and supports a moreaccessible,connecteddowntownexperience.
KeyHighlights
MasterPlan
Expandspublicboatrampaccess
Enhanceswaterfrontconnectivity
PartnershipwithSt LucieCounty
ement
MasterPlan
Improvessafetyatakeyintersection
Enhancespedestrianaccessandwalkability
Upgradestrafficsignalsandroadwaydesign
PartnershipwithSt.LucieCounty
FPRAfundingupto$250,000
MasterPlan
ExpandspublicWi-Fiinkeydowntownlocations
Enhancesdigitalconnectivity
PartnershipwithFortPierceUtilitiesAuthority(FPUA)
Investmentinfiberandwirelessinfrastructure
Supportsamoreconnecteddowntownexperience
WAYFINDING&CONN
PROGRAM:WayfindingSignage
LOCATION:FPRA
The FPRA Wayfinding Signage Program reached a major milestone in June 2 installationof35directionalsigns,13districtbrandsignsidentifyingkeyareas,a signs throughout the FPRA. This comprehensive effort involved extensive plann designdevelopment,siteselection,andidentifyingkeydestinationstobestguide visitors.
Thefinalphaseoftheprogramincludessevengatewayentrancesigns,currentlyp permit approval and anticipated for installation in mid-2026. These signs will poweredlighting,creatingawelcomingandvisuallyappealingentryexperiencein bothresidentsandvisitors.
BEFORE
SouthBeach
LincolnPark
Fisherman’s Wharf
PeacockArts District Downtown
STRENGTHENINGCOMM
TheFPRAcontinuestosupportenhancedpolicepresencethroughspecialdetailassignmentsinDowntown JettyPark,andNorth25thStreet,contributingtoasaferandmorewelcomingenvironmentacrossthes key areas. The visible presence of officers serves as a strong deterrent to criminal activity, reducin opportunitiesforunlawfulbehaviorandincreasingoverallpublicsafety.
These dedicated details allow officers to become familiar with the unique characteristics of each are improving response times and strengthening situational awareness. In addition to enforcement, office actively engage with residents, businesses, and visitors through community outreach and day-to-da interactions,helpingtobuildtrustandfosterpositiverelationships.
Theprogramnotonlyenhancessafetybutalsocontributestocommunityconfidenceandvitality.With consistent and approachable law enforcement presence, residents and visitors feel more secur encouraginggreaterparticipation,activity,andinvestmentthroughouttheFPRAdistricts.
SchoolResourceOfficers
School Resource Officers (SROs) play a vital role in fostering a safe and supportive school environment. Beyond ensuring security, they serve as mentors and trusted role models, buildingmeaningfulrelationshipswithstudentsandofferingguidance.Theirpresencehelps deterpotentialthreatswhilepromotingacultureofrespect,responsibility,andcommunity.
Through regular engagement and a reassuring presence, SROs help students feel safe, confident, and supported. These positive interactions contribute to emotional well-being, strengthen students’ sense of belonging, and encourage responsible decision-making. Overall, SROs support the well-rounded development of students, helping them grow into confident,responsible,andcommunity-mindedindividuals.
