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St. Lucie County, situated between the major economic hubs of Miami and Orlando, has rapidly emerged as a prime location for businesses and residents alike.
With its strategic geographical position, robust infrastructure, and enviable quality of life, the county has seen a surge in population and economic activity. The Economic Development Council (EDC) of St. Lucie County has played a pivotal role in this transformation, leveraging innovative digital tools and strategic marketing to showcase the county’s unique advantages and attract investment.
Digital Transformation with Localintel
“Adding Localintel’s insights and interactive data visualization tools throughout our website has significantly enhanced our ability to communicate our location’s strengths more effectively.”
Central to the success of St. Lucie County’s digital transformation has been the integration of Localintel’s interactive data visualization tools throughout the new website. The redesigned website features a “Site Selector Toolbox” prominently at the top, allowing potential investors to access all the visualizations and data they need in one place.
“I really liked the idea of having that site selector toolbox right there so consultants can go right to it and get whatever information they want,” Saltzer shares. The Localintel tools used on the website include Logistics and Accessibility Advantages, Quality of Life Advantages, Workforce Advantages, and Community Profile. These tools communicate the county’s advantages, keep visitors engaged longer, and share critical data that businesses need.
Saltzer emphasizes, “Adding Localintel’s insights and interactive data visualization tools throughout our website has significantly enhanced our ability to communicate our location’s strengths more effectively.”
Strategic Location and Accessibility
St. Lucie County's location offers unparalleled access to Florida's major markets. Positioned within a three-hour drive of 70% of the state’s population, the county is well-connected by major highways, includingI-95 and Florida’s Turnpike. This accessibility has made it an attractive destination for logistics companies and other industries that benefit from efficient transportation networks.
“Our location provides easy access to major markets, and our land costs are competitive,” explains Maureen Saltzer, Director ofCommunications and Outreach at St. Lucie EDC. “This has made us a hotspot for logistics and other industries looking for a strategic advantage.”
Post-Pandemic Growth and Long-Term Planning
The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped migration patterns, with many individuals relocating to Florida for its favorable climate and lifestyle.St. Lucie County has capitalized on this trend, experiencing significant growth as new residents move to the area. The county’s pre-existing entitled residential properties have facilitated this rapid development, under scoring the importance of long-term planning.
“Florida’s enviable lifestyle has driven significant growth post-COVID,” Saltzer notes. “We had a lot of entitled land ready for development, which allowed us to accommodate this influx rapidly.”
Quality of Life and Attractions
The quality of life in St. Lucie County is a major draw for both residents and businesses. The county boasts 21 miles of pristine beaches, a scenic river, and unique recreational activities such as horseback riding on the beach. These amenities not only attract tourists but also make St. Lucie an appealing place to live and work.
“Our lifestyle amenities are a significant attraction,” Saltzer says. “Tourists and potential residents are drawn to our beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and overall quality of life.”
Leveraging Deep Water Ports
A notable asset of St. Lucie County is its deep-water port in Fort Pierce, offering one of Florida’s most navigable inlets. This port, primarily used for refurbishing super yachts, represents a unique economic asset with the largest mobile boat lift in the country.
“Fort Pierce’s deep-water port is a unique asset for our county,” Saltzer notes. “It’s not only historically significant but also crucial for our maritime industries.”
Building Awareness and Overcoming Challenges
Despite its numerous advantages, St. Lucie County initially faced challenges in gaining national recognition. However, through strategic marketing efforts, the county has significantly improved its profile. Social media campaigns, traditional advertising, and participation in trade shows have played crucial roles in this transformation.
“Our journey from obscurity to becoming a well-known location has been driven by persistent marketing efforts,” says Saltzer. “Strategic use of social media and targeted marketing campaigns have significantly increased our visibility.”
One of the critical steps in overcoming these challenges was the redesign of the EDC’s website. The new site, YourEDC, create by Marketing Alliance, received the Innovation in Marketing award in 2024 from theFlorida Economic Development Council. This recognition underscores the county’s commitment to leveraging digital tools to enhance its economic development strategy.
Conclusion
St. Lucie County’s remarkable growth and development highlight the effectiveness of a comprehensive digital marketing strategy. The integration of Localintel’s tools has significantly enriched the county’s digital presence, effectively communicating its strengths and keeping potential investors engaged. As St. Lucie continues to grow, its innovative approach to economic development serves as a model for other regions aiming to enhance their digital marketing efforts.
The strategic use of technology and digital tools has not only boosted the county’s profile but also facilitated better engagement with businesses and investors. By showcasing its unique advantages and maintaining a robust digital presence, St. Lucie County is well-positioned for continued success and growth in the competitive landscape of economic development.
