PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (CBS12) — A major development project in Port St. Lucie is growing much faster than originally expected.

When the city took over the land known as Southern Grove in 2018, leaders believed it could take up to 30 years to sell and develop the property. But less than a decade later, most of the land has already been spoken for.

Southern Grove is a 3,605-acre development of regional impact located within the larger Tradition area of Port St. Lucie. The site sits near Interstate 95 and the Florida Turnpike, making it attractive for businesses looking to expand along the Treasure Coast.

City leaders took control of the land in 2018 after the original developer exited the project. The city then created a master plan aimed at attracting major employers and building a strong jobs corridor to diversify Port St. Lucie’s economy.

Since then, the area has rapidly filled with businesses.

Large employers such as Amazon, FedEx, and Cheney Brothers have opened distribution facilities in Southern Grove. The area is also home to healthcare and research tied to the Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital.

New projects are continuing to move in.

A Costco retail store has been approved in the area, along with a Costco distribution depot currently under construction nearby. A new medical facility has also recently been approved as part of the growing development.

City leaders say the goal has been to create an employment hub where residents can both live and work without leaving Port St. Lucie.

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Southern Grove includes a 1,200-acre jobs corridor, which was designated as a Community Redevelopment Area in 2012. The corridor features a mix of healthcare, bioscience research, hotels, manufacturing, commerce parks, and distribution centers.

By the end of 2024, city officials said only about 100 acres of land remained available for purchase, showing just how quickly the area has filled.

Port St. Lucie leaders say the rapid development reflects the city’s growing population and demand for jobs, services, and retail.

CBS12 will have more from city leaders and residents about how the area is transforming and what it means for the future of Port St. Lucie.