Timeline

Timeline outlining milestones with Brightline, Martin County and the City of Stuart

Where we are now

  • September 9, 2024
    The City of Stuart rescinded 2 of 3 agreements with Brightline and Martin County.
  • September 10, 2024
    The Board withdrew the agenda items and directed staff to begin conversations with the City of Stuart and Brightline, and, if needed, individual negotiations with Brightline.
  • September 23, 2024
    The City of Stuart discussed Brightline at their commission meeting with direction to renew negotiations with Martin County and Brightline.
  • September 24, 2024
     The Board held a discussion about Brightline.
  • Martin County is currently under the 2018 Settlement Agreement with Brightline

2018 Settlement Agreement

Railroad crossing upgrades
Vehicle presence detection, exit gates, sidewalks, pavement markings, signage and quiet zones

$1M toward reimbursement for Martin County to install fencing
Brightline shares Martin County's responsibility for crossing maintenance fees with 14-year cap

Station on the Treasure Coast
Within 5 years of passenger rail service from West Palm Beach to Orlando

Martin County's contribution not to exceed 50% of station construction cost

Consistent bridge openings and bridge monitor

Amended Settlement Agreement with Brightline

  • Brightline will construct an additional 6.6 miles of fencing for safety
  • Removes Brightline's obligation for the 50/50 cost of construction of an aerial pedestrian bridge, but must allow for the future construction of a pedestrian bridge at station site
  • Martin County's payment of up to $15M (maximum) and coneyance of land satisfies the 2018 agreement requiring Martin to pay up to 50% of the station cost
  • Upon completion of the station, at least two northbound and two southbound trains will stop in Stuart

Proposed Interlocal Agreement with City of Stuart

  • Martin County will convey 2.35 acres to the City of Stuart through an executed agreement
  • The City of Stuart agrees to provide 545 parking spaces within 1/4 mile of the Martin County Courthouse
  • Martin County agrees to pay 50% of construction costs of the train station and the City of Stuart agrees to pay for the construction costs of the parking garage

Proposed Amended Interlocal Agreement with City of Stuart

  • Martin County requires a restrictive covenant in the County deed requiring the property is used solely for public purposes
  • The City of Stuart will lease the property to Brightline to develop a train station and 200 parking spaces
  • Martin County commits up to $15M and the City of Stuart commits up to $30M for the design and development of a train station
  • The Tourist Development Council allocated $800K to promote and establish the Stuart Brightline Station with Bed Tax