As both a city in and the county seat for Martin County, Florida, Stuart is located along Florida’s renowned Treasure Coast, north of Jupiter, and south of Port Saint Lucie. The city typically averages a population of around 16,000 people, but experiences significant fluctuation during its tourism season in the colder months of the year.
Known as the “Sailfish Capital of the World,” and labeled a “coastal dreamtown” by Coastal Living Magazine, Stuart is famed for its historic and pedestrian-friendly downtown, vibrant waterfront, and fishing and other water-intensive pleasures. The city features a fine assortment of accommodations, dining options, recreational opportunities, state parks, and several museums including the Stuart Heritage Museum and the Road to Victory (World War II) Military Museum. Stuart is often mentioned among the best small towns to visit in the U.S.
Stuart’s idyllic location makes it such a sought after destination, but leaves it vulnerable to sea level rise and flooding. In 2002, the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council (TCRPC) entered into a contract with the Southwest Florida Regional Planning Council SWFRPC to conduct a study of sea level rise within the Treasure Coast Region. The report created maps of the Treasure Coast Region that distinguish the shores that are likely to need protection from erosion, inundation, and flooding.
In 2018, the city of Stuart joined the American Flood Coalition to further its efforts in mitigating the effects of sea level rise while working towards solutions that will protect the city and its residents, and the local environment.
