The City of Stuart is one step closer to establishing a Brightline station after the City Commission unanimously approved a new agreement Monday to locate a station on Flagler Avenue.
Many residents see this as a long-awaited step forward.
“I was very excited and so were my friends when they heard this. This is great news and everyone is happy,” said Bryan Nedwed, a resident of Stuart. “I would like to travel to other parts of Florida along the coast that are quite difficult to drive, but with him it is much easier.”
The agreement includes more than 200 surface parking spaces. Mayor Becky Burner said the city has committed $30 million to the project and Martin County will contribute $15 million for planning and design and another $800,000 to market the new station.
“It’s finally here, because it took a while to work with the district and clarify all the legal issues with the lawyer,” said Burner. “But now everything is done.”
Mayor Burner said construction will cost up to $45 million and the city will apply for grants for the design process.
“This station proves that we’re a pretty hip city. People love it and I think we’re taking good care of it,” Burner said. “It’s going to be a wonderful thing for our future and for our children and grandchildren.”
The station is scheduled to open in the second half of 2026. The commission discussed the possibility of converting the parking lot into a garage, but did not make a final decision.
Under the agreement, Brightline will be responsible for the maintenance, operation, taxes and insurance of the property; the land will remain the property of the city until Brightline takes ownership.
WPTV asked Brightline officials about Monday’s vote and they responded with the following statement:
“Today’s unanimous vote by the Stuart City Commission on the lease for the Stuart Station is one of the final steps necessary to deliver a train station to Martin County. We are grateful for the support and partnership of the Commission and City staff and look forward to officially breaking ground.”
However, this project still needs to go one step further before it becomes official. The Martin County Commission will discuss and vote on the agreement at its next meeting on August 27.
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