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City backs application to replace 100‑year‑old St. Lucie River railroad bridge with FIND partnership
Summary
The commission voted to co‑apply with the Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) and support a USDOT/state grant to replace and double‑track the century‑old St. Lucie River railroad bridge. FIND pledged about $79 million toward the roughly $262 million project that aims to widen and raise the navigation channel, reduce bridge openings and relieve traffic backups.
The City of Stuart formally approved Resolution 110‑2025 to co‑apply with the Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) for a USDOT/state partnership grant to replace the century‑old St. Lucie River railroad bridge.
Interim city staff described the project as a roughly $262 million effort to double‑track and raise the bridge — increasing horizontal clearance and raising the span to allow most vessel traffic to pass without drawspan openings. FIND representatives told the commission they would contribute roughly $79 million as a partner, which staff said filled a critical local match gap and would allow the project to move into permitting and detailed design. Staff presented a tentative timeline that targeted an opening around 2032.
Supporters — including local marina and marine‑industry representatives — said the project would reduce road traffic backups caused when single‑track trains queue over downtown intersections and would improve marine navigation. Vice Mayor Reid noted the public share of the project would be large; staff and FIND emphasized the partnership would leverage state and federal grant dollars. The commission voted to support the joint application and accept the FIND contribution if awarded.
