During a recent government meeting, the establishment of a zoning text amendment for the Port of Fort Pierce overlay zoning district was discussed, marking a significant step in the redevelopment of the area. The meeting, led by a planning board member, aimed to provide an update on the ongoing process and gather input from property owners and interested parties.

The Port of Fort Pierce is one of only 15 deepwater seaports in the region, and the city has been working on a master plan since 2020 to facilitate its redevelopment. The proposed zoning overlay aims to streamline the current mixed zoning, which has been described as a \"mess,\" and align it with the goals of the master plan. The intent is to create a cohesive framework that promotes economic activity and employment generation in the port area.

The overlay district will introduce a more flexible zoning approach, allowing for a variety of uses that can be adapted to meet market demands. This initiative is seen as crucial for revitalizing the largely underutilized port area, which currently has significant vacant land. The planning board emphasized the importance of securing buy-in from local property owners to ensure a collaborative redevelopment effort.

Concerns were raised regarding the boundaries of the overlay, particularly the southern boundary not extending to Seaway Drive. Board members expressed a desire to explore the possibility of including this area to create cleaner boundaries and enhance the overall development potential of the port.

Public comments highlighted the importance of compatibility between proposed developments and existing recreational elements in the area. Stakeholders, including representatives from Safe Harbor Marina, expressed support for the zoning overlay, emphasizing the need for clarity and certainty in the development process to facilitate business planning and investment.

The meeting concluded with a call for further public outreach and engagement with property owners before finalizing the overlay district. The planning board aims to incorporate feedback and ensure that the zoning changes align with the broader vision for the Port of Fort Pierce, fostering a collaborative environment for future development.