Stuart's downtown public dock will shut down July 6 to begin a $3 million renovation project that is scheduled to be finished by next Fourth of July. The year-long improvement will significantly increase the facility's capacity, growing from 18 boat slips to 44 slips that will accommodate both motorized and non-motorized vessels. The renovation will consist of a 7,500 square foot fixed dock, a 1,400 square foot floating dock, and a smaller floating platform. The project is being funded through a state grant and transportation impact fees.
Beyond simply adding more space, the upgrades are designed with storm resilience in mind. Mayor Sean Reed explained that the improvements aim to prevent damage during hurricanes and major storms. The dock currently serves more than 1,400 boaters each year, making the expansion a significant investment in the city's waterfront infrastructure. The enhanced capacity will address crowding issues that frequently occur during busy weekends when businesses and boaters struggle to find available spots at the current facility.
The city has worked proactively to minimize disruption to businesses that depend on the dock during the construction period. Tiki Taxi & Cruises, which operates passenger boarding services from the dock, initially faced uncertainty about whether it could continue operations. However, the city found a solution by allowing the business to construct a gate at the end of the non-floating section of the dock. This arrangement will enable Tiki Taxi & Cruises to continue boarding passengers throughout the renovation period. Austin Kuyrkendall, the company's director of operations, expressed relief that the city located a workable compromise.
Local boaters and business operators have embraced the renovation plans. Boat captain Parker Fisher, based in Stuart, acknowledged that the dock needed improvements and welcomed the city's investment. Kuyrkendall emphasized the dock's central importance to Stuart's identity and economy, noting that the modernization project represents more than just a practical upgrade. He described the expansion as beneficial not only for Stuart's water-dependent businesses but also for the community's character and livelihood. The project reflects the city's commitment to enhancing infrastructure while supporting the waterfront businesses and recreational boaters that define Stuart's relationship with its waterways.