Through aggressive marketing campaigns, GDC advertised parcels of land across the United States, luring buyers with images of sunny skies, modern homes, and a tranquil Florida lifestyle. Prospective homeowners were offered inexpensive lots, often purchased sight unseen.
By 1961, the city of Port St. Lucie was officially incorporated, with fewer than 300 residents. Yet its foundations as a planned city were firmly in place, and its population was destined to grow dramatically in the decades ahead.
Building a Community: Roads, Schools, and Services
The 1960s and 1970s were decades of infrastructure building. Streets were laid out in an ambitious grid system, stretching for miles. Schools, churches, and businesses slowly emerged to meet the needs of incoming residents.
The St. Lucie River, once a barrier, became a centerpiece of recreation and waterfront living. Bridges were constructed to connect neighborhoods, and the riverfront was marketed as a natural amenity. Parks and golf courses further enhanced the appeal for retirees and families alike.
Despite this growth, the city faced criticism for its rapid expansion. Environmentalists worried about the destruction of wetlands and the ecological balance of the Indian River Lagoon. Nonetheless, Port St. Lucie pressed forward, determined to establish itself as a stable residential community. shutdown123