Fort Pierce city officials have put the future of a 200‑acre parcel near I‑95 and Midway Road on hold. At a recent planning board meeting, members voted to defer a decision on a rezoning request that would convert most of the land to light industrial use limited to a data center, while allowing a smaller portion for general commercial development such as a hotel, gas station, restaurants or retail stores.
Proposal details
The property, currently zoned for a mixed‑use development known as “Willow Lakes,” would be partially rezoned under the applicant’s plan. Approximately 174 acres would shift to light industrial zoning, expressly limited to data‑center operations. The remaining 26 acres along Midway Road would become general commercial, opening the door for a range of businesses that could serve both travelers on I‑95 and local residents.
Willow Lakes LLC, the developer, highlighted the site’s robust electrical infrastructure, noting proximity to Florida Power & Light transmission lines and a nearby substation. A large man‑made lake on the property could also provide a water source for the data center’s cooling system, a point the company says makes the location especially suitable for high‑tech operations.
Board action and next steps
During the meeting, the planning board took two key actions. First, it directed the planning department to conduct additional research on the data‑center proposal and report its findings back to the board. Second, the board scheduled the item for discussion at the next commission meeting, effectively postponing any immediate decision on whether the data center qualifies as a permitted use under the light‑industrial zoning category.
Because the board did not resolve the zoning question, Willow Lakes LLC’s attorney, W. Lee Dobbins, said the developer will likely pause the rezoning application until the city clarifies the code. “Therefore, there is no point in us moving forward with rezoning to light industrial,” Dobbins stated. “We would need to wait until that decision is over and make a decision at that time based upon what they changed the code to say.”
Community response
Local residents voiced a range of opinions. Sarah Quinette expressed concern about having a data center so close to homes, emphasizing the ecological value of keeping the land agricultural for pollinating insects. “We’re not OK with them building a data center right next to our homes,” she said.
In contrast, Felix Rodriguez welcomed the prospect of new jobs and increased commerce, noting that freight traffic could boost local business activity. “I think it’s pretty cool personally, just because it brings in more jobs, construction, that trade,” he remarked.
Shirley McHellon voiced strong opposition, focusing on the potential loss of trees, wildlife and natural habitat. “I think they need to stop. They’re taking away the trees, the woods and the animals … they’re just killing the animals,” she said.
Implications for Fort Pierce
If approved, the data center could bring significant tax revenue and employment opportunities to the Treasure Coast, aligning with broader economic development goals. However, the project also raises questions about preserving green space, protecting local wildlife, and ensuring that infrastructure upgrades do not burden existing neighborhoods.
The planning board’s request for further study reflects a cautious approach, giving the city time to weigh economic benefits against community concerns. Residents can expect more information as the planning department completes its research and the commission revisits the proposal at its next meeting.
Fort Pierce officials encourage community members to stay engaged, attend upcoming meetings, and submit comments during the public‑input period. The outcome will shape the character of a sizable tract of land that sits at a critical crossroads of transportation and development in the city.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
