In 2003, 17-year-old Jessica Clinton died from a heart condition, and soon after, Jessica Clinton Park got its name. On the street outside the park named after her, hearts were painted to raise awareness for conditions like hers. Overnight on Tuesday, they were removed. The city says it’s to comply with new FDOT regulations that we’ve been seeing across the state.
The park is a community staple right in the heart of the South Bend neighborhood in Port Saint Lucie.
“We enjoy it very much, very much enjoy it,” said local resident Samantha Scala.
These hearts were painted on the road outside the park, meant to be a symbol of support for the park’s namesake and others with similar heart conditions — overnight, crews removed them, shocking and upsetting to many I spoke with at the park…