Commission approves Graceway Village expansion for family shelter with conditions

The City Commission approved a major site plan and conditional use allowing Graceway Village to expand a family shelter community at 1780 Hartman Road. Assistant planning director Chris Sonnison told the commission the project covers about 7.84 acres and proposes 36 dwelling units at full buildout, with phased implementation.

Sonnison said the proposal "has been coordinated with the technical review committee" and that "all departments have reviewed the proposed major site plan and all departments have supported the application." Staff and the planning board recommended approval with conditions, including a tree removal permit and mitigation, land‑clearing permit, a gopher tortoise survey within 90 days of clearing, St. Lucie County right‑of‑way permit, and required state and federal permits before development plan compliance review.

Brad Curry, the project's representative, and Graceway CEO Crystal Nedington indicated they agreed with the recommended conditions. Commissioners asked about transportation and pedestrian access; staff said sidewalks were required and the site has room for future private transportation pick‑ups if needed. The commission voted to approve the conditional use and site plan with the listed conditions.