ECONOMY
14
ANTHONY WESTBURY
The area of Fisherman’s Wharf that lies between the South Bridge and the port area is largely vacant and unused. A developer is interested in building a
concierge boat storage facility and a retail/restaurant complex on the site. The preliminary plans have drawn some local opposition because the project
would require the relocation of the popular Black Pearl boat ramp.
The remaining nine lots went up for sale on Jan. 1, he said.
Meanwhile, the hotel component is still on track. Matteson
is awaiting permit approval before he can begin installing site
infrastructure.
“I think by spring 2023 you’ll see the infrastructure roads,
utilities, etc. going in,” he said.
BUYERS INTERESTED
The interest in potential buyers, Matteson said, has been
fantastic. He said he has 157 reservations for 114 units and
has firm commitments from six restaurant operators, plus
three restaurants that will be part of the hotel.
And there’s a new trend coming to Fort Pierce.
“I guess the Treasure Coast has been busting for rooftop
bars,” he noted with a chuckle. “It’s a great way for us to
monetize unused space on the top of the tallest buildings.
The bars will offer spectacular views.”
Another planned retail-commercial development in the
early planning stages is a boat storage complex and residential
and retail units on Fisherman’s Wharf, sited between the
port to the north and downtown.
Developer Chris Pulli is hoping to revitalize the rundown
waterfront area with a concierge boat storage operation, restaurants,
bars and live music with his $76 million project.
Pulli said he hopes the development provides a safe,
family-friendly waterfront destination. It will include a public
boardwalk, free public dockage, as well as retail components.
There will also be additional parking for both the development
and as a way to alleviate the parking crunch experienced
in downtown.
Pulli said he is committed to involving the community in
his plan. “I’m trying to honor the area’s past and heritage,”
he said. He also plans to add a mentoring and internship program
that will involve students from Westwood High School
and Forest Grove Middle School.
So, while downtown Fort Pierce awaits the arrival of giant
new developments, which should boost the attractiveness of
downtown for locals and visitors alike, business still looks
great for established merchants in the city’s core.
RUSTY DURHAM
The iconic P.P. Cobb Building on Avenue A at Indian River Drive in downtown
Fort Pierce is likely the oldest such structure still in use in the area
and remains a popular spot for visitors and locals alike.