All eyes are on Brightline as the private rail company is expected to announce its pick for a Treasure Coast station, and much of Indian River County has its fingers crossed for Fort Pierce.
Brightline is considering five proposals in Martin and St. Lucie counties.
According to a 2018 settlement with Martin County, Brightline is required to put in a Treasure Coast station somewhere in Martin or St. Lucie counties within five years of launching service to Orlando. Service began there on Sept. 22.
Brightline previously expected to make the choice in the first quarter of 2024.
“I’m leaning towards Fort Pierce, I hope they get it,” Clark Berry, owner of American Icon Brewery, said. “The closer to Vero Beach the better.”
John Bryja/WPTVAmerican Icon sits about 35 feet from the Brightline tracks at Commerce Avenue. If Vero Beach ever were to get a station, based on the Brightline requirements, it would likely be on the plot next to Berry’s Brewery.