Sentinel Grove data center would be boon to St. Lucie, Treasure Coast

A famous poet once said, “Life is a balance of holding on and letting go.” 

This idea rings true when I think about development in Florida and the struggle to preserve as much of our beautiful state as possible while balancing the demand and the need for progress. 

Landowners across the state of Florida have a unique responsibility and an even greater opportunity to shape the economic development of their communities and the advancement of our state. 

Such an opportunity exists in St. Lucie County, where a vacant piece of land off Minute Maid Road that was once a citrus grove might now be turned into a hyperscale data center.

I know people hear that and groan. But please hear me out. Every piece of land cannot be preserved. These data centers are increasingly critical to our communities, so we need to consider how to embrace them responsibly.

The proposed Sentinel Grove Technology Park would be the first of its kind in Florida and a model for how rural land can drive innovation. The 1,218-acre site would house computer systems and other data-center infrastructure buildings. It would transform this unused stretch of land into a productive, revenue-producing asset by increasing property values and infrastructure access.

Sentinel Grove would include upgrading roads, broadband and utilities and attract complementary businesses to the area. It will generate millions in tax revenue and create hundreds of jobs.

These are just a few reasons why I urge St. Lucie County, residents and landowners to consider supporting the Sentinel Grove project. I believe it is possible to successfully embrace necessary progress while protecting and preserving precious land.

By working together, the proper balance can be achieved to best manage growth responsibly.

Brandon Tucker, Martin County, is executive director of the Florida Landowners Association.

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