Over the past six decades, our community transformed those unlikely beginnings into a powerful success story. In the 1970, U. S. Census, our population was less than 1,000 people. Today, Port St. Lucie is the sixth largest city in Florida with more than 260,000 residents and it has been recognized as:
• The safest large city in Florida for more than a decade
• A 2025 All-America City by the National Civic League
• One of only two cities in America to be considered fully racially integrated
• One of the top real estate markets in the state and the nation
“ Sixty five years ago, Port St. Lucie began as a small bedroom community,” said Mayor Shannon M. Martin.“ As we mark 65 years, we’ re celebrating not just how far we’ ve come, but the bright future we’ re continuing to build together. This event is a chance for everyone to come out, connect and be part of what makes Port St. Lucie such an extraordinary community.”
To kick off the festivities, nominees for the second annual Naturally PSL Environmental Stewardship Awards were recognized and the winners announced. The 2026 awards, which recognize local champions who help keep our City beautiful and resilient, include:
• Community Impact Award: St. Lucie County Master Gardener volunteers
• Emerging Environmental Leader Award: Roslyn Tran
• Green Schools Award: Treasure Coast High School Key Club
• Neighbors Award: Manuel Rosario
• Public Innovation Award: Florida Inland Navigation Award
8 ON THE
PSL PULSE