It might not seem like much – a neighborhood with a sign at its main entrance. But those living in 17 neighborhoods throughout the City of Port St. Lucie didn’t even have that.
The original developer of Port St. Lucie built much of the city without giving the various areas any names. They were given section numbers instead.
Now, thanks to a city initiative, many of those neighborhoods have a new name – chosen by their residents – and thus a new source of community pride. At the inaugural NICE Block Party last week on the grounds of City Hall, cheers erupted from the crowd as each community’s name was announced.
“We’re just getting started!” Mayor Gregory Oravec announced to the gathering. Next year, the city hopes to work with members of each community to throw their own block parties.
“I think it’s awesome,” said Mari Miranda of the block party, noting that it was a great way to bring the community together and learn more about the behind-the-scenes work the city does for its residents.
Peter Wicinski agreed, adding, “It’s a good way to network.” That, and the food and entertainment were good.
Carmen Capezzuto, director of the city’s Neighborhood Services Department, said the block party exceeded his own expectations. “Everybody’s happy and getting connected,” he said.
Along with finding out what their neighborhood would be called, residents bounced from booth to booth picking up flyers and other information from the various departments within the city.
The Big Red Bus was also at the event, eager to collect blood donations from those willing to help. Port St. Lucie’s own police department and SWAT team were there, as were representatives from the city’s Parks and Recreation, Utilities and Public Works departments.
The Health Department of St. Lucie County, various healthy aging agencies, and the Treasure Coast Food Bank vied for attention, as well.
The goal of the block party was to get residents connected – among themselves with their newly identified neighborhoods, and with their city. “This is the foundation,” Capezzuto said.
Envelope Please…
The old neighborhood name, followed by its new name:
- Abingdon Lakes – Hidden Oaks
- Alcantarra North – Gatlin Pines
- Citrus Park – Crane Landing
- East Bayshore – Bayshore Heights
- Floresta North – Floresta Pointe
- Floresta South –Floresta Gardens
- Green River – Sandhill Crossing
- Monterrey – Palm Trails
- Northport – Northport Village
- Openview Park – Rosser Reserve
- Ridgecrest – Becker Ridge
Not all neighborhoods changed names; some voted to make official their previously unofficial name. Those who opted to keep their names are as follows:
- Lyngate
- Morningside
- Riverview
- Swan Park
- Tulip Park
- Whispering Pines
