New Airport Road Could Slash Traffic to Treasure Coast International!

Fort Pierce, Florida, United States - As St. Lucie County stands on the brink of expansion, exciting developments are underway at the Treasure Coast International Airport (FPR). Following a recent meeting focusing on proposed infrastructure improvements, residents are buzzing about a potential new road that promises to alleviate current traffic congestion and boost economic growth in the area.

The National UDT-SEAL Museum marked Memorial Day with a solemn ceremony on May 26, 2025, but the real attention now lies on the plans poised to transform transportation in Fort Pierce. St. Lucie County is anticipating significant growth at the airport, with expectations of new commercial passenger service on the horizon. While details remain under wraps, talk is swirling about how a new roadway could facilitate smoother access to this vital hub.

The Road to Improvement

The recently presented Treasure Coast Airport Connector–Alternative Alignment Study has put forth nine possible routes aimed at creating a new direct connection from Interstate 95 to the airport. This effort is not just about easing traffic; it’s about enhancing mobility throughout St. Lucie County and fostering local economic development. All proposed routes would conclude at the intersection of Kings Highway and St. Lucie Boulevard, with two potential interchange locations near the Meadowood Golf and Tennis Club. The southern location seems to hold the upper hand because it involves county-owned property and incurs less disruption to private properties.

Seven of the nine proposed alignments utilize this favored southern interchange, with the standout being Alignment D. This recommended route stretches approximately 2.11 miles and comes with an estimated price tag of over $48.5 million. While it boasts minimal impact on wetlands and private properties, three residences would need to be acquired and demolished. County Commissioner James Clasby raised questions about communicating with affected residents, to which consultant Brian Good acknowledged that talks had yet to take place. Nevertheless, Commissioner Cathy Townsend reassured that property owners are in the loop.

All of this will require further approvals, but the County Commission stood united in accepting the consultants‘ report, signaling a significant step forward. It’s worth noting that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had granted approval in October for commercial passenger flights, though no airlines have made announcements yet. Townsend highlighted that discussions are ongoing, with attention focused on ensuring compliance with FAA certification.

A Gateway to Growth

The potential benefits of these developments extend far beyond smoother travel. According to youredc.com, Treasure Coast International Airport is strategically situated equidistant from Orlando and Miami, placing over 70% of Florida within a three-hour drive. At present, the airport boasts over 1,000 acres available for lease and development, making it an attractive prospect for industrial and commercial businesses.

FPR is home to nearly 60 tenants, including vital services such as aircraft maintenance, storage, and charter operations, which all contribute to an estimated $509 million in annual economic impact and employ over 3,400 people. The airport features impressive amenities, including a recently renovated passenger terminal and state-of-the-art air traffic control. These developments are on the right track to not only boost local employment but also provide fresh opportunities in a cost-competitive environment.

Treasure Coast International Airport successfully received its FAA Part 139 Certification on October 2, 2024, paving the way for commercial operations after meeting rigorous safety standards. According to flytci.com, the interest in attracting both domestic and international air service has never been higher. With a dedicated U.S. Customs & Border Protection facility and status as Foreign Trade Zone 218, the airport is well-prepared to accommodate commercial air carriers.

The narrative surrounding St. Lucie County’s growth is one of community engagement and economic promise. As plans for the new road and commercial air service evolve, residents are eager to see how these changes will unfold and transform their daily commutes and the broader economic landscape. There’s a lot to look forward to, and the upcoming months are bound to bring even more developments.