Costco is set to open a new warehouse in Stuart, Florida, on April 25, 2025. Located on a 49-acre site east of Kanner Highway, about a block south of Martin County High School, this development will include a 162,020-square-foot store with 18 gas pumps, retail and restaurant spaces, and 378 apartments as part of a larger mixed-use project.
While many residents are eager for the arrival of the wholesale giant, the project has been years in the making, facing legal challenges and community debates along the way.
A Look at the Site’s History
The land where the new Costco is being built has undergone significant changes over time. Historic aerial images from 1958 show a mostly undeveloped area with scattered ponds and dirt roads. Over the decades, the surrounding region saw an increase in residential and commercial development, yet this particular parcel remained largely untouched.
In 2021, plans for the Costco project were introduced, but the proposal faced opposition due to concerns over traffic congestion and environmental impact. A legal dispute followed, and an administrative judge initially ruled against the project. However, in January 2023, a state panel led by Governor Ron DeSantis overruled that decision, allowing construction to move forward.
Now, with the site cleared and construction well underway, the transformation is evident. What was once an open, unused space is now a bustling construction site preparing for one of Stuart’s biggest retail additions.
Community Reaction: Excitement and Concern
As with any major development, the new Costco has drawn mixed reactions from locals.
Supporters Say:
- Many residents welcome Costco as a long-awaited alternative to existing grocery and retail stores in the area.
- A dedicated Facebook group, “Martin County Welcomes Costco to Stuart,” has been actively sharing updates and encouraging community support.
- The project’s developers have highlighted planned infrastructure improvements, such as a new connector road, to help alleviate traffic concerns.
Opponents Say:
- Some residents worry about increased congestion along Kanner Highway, particularly with the addition of 378 apartments in the development.
- The “Save Martin County, Florida” Facebook group has voiced concerns over the project’s environmental impact and long-term effects on the area’s character.
- A portion of the community remains skeptical, citing the legal battles that initially slowed the project’s approval.
Despite differing opinions, construction is moving forward, and as the April 2025 opening date approaches, Costco will soon become a reality in Stuart.
What’s Next?
With less than two months until its grand opening, the Stuart Costco is nearing completion. As finishing touches are applied, locals can expect more details on membership promotions, grand opening events, and hiring opportunities.
For those interested in seeing the progress firsthand, discussions and aerial images are frequently shared across local social media groups. Whether you’re eagerly anticipating bulk savings or watching with curiosity, Costco’s arrival in Stuart marks a major shift in the city’s retail landscape.
Last Updated on March 5, 2025 by F. E. Mufute