Brightline station in downtown Stuart faces unsure future

STUART, Fla. — The way forward for a Brightline station in downtown Stuart is extra unsure than ever after Martin County was not among the many recipients of federal funding via the Intercity Passenger Rail Program.

The railroad bridge undertaking in Stuart — a alternative for the century-old St. Lucie River Bridge — was among the many grant recipients, receiving $79 million in federal {dollars}. However, a prepare station in Martin County was not included.

WATCH BELOW: Brightline station in downtown Stuart faces unsure future

Brightline station in downtown Stuart faces unsure future

U.S. Rep. Brian Mast, R-Fla., who represents District 21 within the U.S. House of Representatives, mentioned extra federal funding for a station is unlikely.

“It’s not likely that they see, you know, another $40, $50, $60, $70 million for a station,” Mast mentioned.

Mast additionally raised considerations concerning the construction of the proposed undertaking.

“It is extremely problematic that the potential Brightline station would be entirely taxpayer-funded at the various levels, from federal all the way down to the local municipalities, with Brightline not putting anything into it and they’re looking to build a very expensive station. They had no interest in examining whether they should build something less expensive,” Mast mentioned.

Some residents shared these considerations with WPTV on Thursday.

John Dial, a mariner and proprietor of At the Helm Training, welcomed the bridge funding however expressed reservations about utilizing public cash for a personal firm’s station.

“Hooray. Finally, because 100 years is a little old for anything,” Dial mentioned of the bridge announcement. “As far as using grant money, which is nothing but general tax money from the federal government, to build a station for a private entity, as a taxpayer, no, I’m not into that.”

But not everybody shares that view.

Christopher Vitale, the supervisor on the Old Colorado Inn, mentioned a Brightline station would profit the native economic system and expressed hope that neighborhood leaders discover one other path ahead.

“It is disappointing to hear that,” Vitale mentioned. “But I’m hoping that we can still rally together as a community recognizing the overwhelming benefits of having a station.”

Residents in downtown Stuart additionally expressed disappointment. Jenna McGrew, an area resident, mentioned federal {dollars} ought to assist initiatives that enhance the neighborhood.

“Our federal tax dollars should go to things that help better the community, and I think a Brightline station would definitely help better the community,” McGrew mentioned.

Fellow resident Tony Scozzafava mentioned he hopes the county finds another strategy.

“I hope that the county can augment another way of doing business,” Scozzafava mentioned.

Martin County launched the next assertion concerning Brightline funding:

“Martin County is pleased to see the announcement of federal funding for a Brightline station in Cocoa Beach, as well as additional federal funding awarded to the City of Stuart for the St. Lucie River Railroad Bridge. We recognize the importance of supporting and investment in transportation projects that benefit our residents, strengthen local businesses and contribute to the continued economic vitality of our state.”

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been transformed to this platform with the help of AI. Our editorial crew verifies all reporting on all platforms for equity and accuracy.

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