The History of Tradition in Port St. Lucie, Florida

Nestled along Florida’s east coast, Port St. Lucie has transformed from a quiet stretch of pine scrub and marshland into one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. Within this city, the master-planned community of Tradition stands out as a testament to visionary urban design, blending a sense of small-town charm with modern amenities. Tradition is more than just a neighborhood—it is a living, evolving story of aspiration, innovation, and community spirit. To understand the history of Tradition is to trace the recent history of Port St. Lucie itself, capturing the hopes of residents, the ambitions of developers, and the changing face of Florida’s Treasure Coast.

Origins and Vision

The concept of Tradition began at the turn of the 21st century, a period marked by rapid population growth and economic expansion across Florida. Developers saw an opportunity to create a new kind of community—one that offered the tranquility of suburban life without sacrificing the conveniences of city living. Tradition was envisioned as a self-sufficient master-planned community, integrating residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, parks, schools, and medical facilities within a walkable and aesthetically appealing environment.

The guiding principle behind Tradition was “new urbanism,” a planning movement that emphasizes walkability, mixed-use spaces, and a strong sense of place. The visionaries behind Tradition sought to recapture the spirit of classic American towns—places where neighbors know each other, children play in the parks, and a lively town center brings people together.

Breaking Ground: Early 2000s Development

Construction on Tradition officially began in the early 2000s. The project was spearheaded by Core Communities (later known as Mattamy Homes), a development company with experience in large-scale master-planned communities. The site chosen for Tradition stretched across thousands of acres of former ranchland and pine forest just west of Interstate 95 in St. Lucie County.

From the outset, Tradition was designed with detail and intent. Streets curved gently to calm traffic and create a sense of intimacy. Neighborhoods were arranged around lakes, green spaces, and walking trails, linking residents to the outdoors. The central hub, Tradition Square, was conceived as the heart of the community—a gathering place for festivals, farmers markets, and family events.

The Grand Opening and Initial Growth

In 2003, Tradition celebrated its grand opening. The unveiling attracted both new residents and national attention. Early homebuyers were drawn by the promise of a thoughtfully designed town, complete with recreational amenities, shopping, and access to high-quality schools. Tradition’s development coincided with a broader surge in Port St. Lucie’s population, fueled by an influx of retirees, families, and young professionals seeking affordable homes and a high quality of life.

Tradition quickly became known for its beautiful landscaping, wide boulevards, and manicured parks. A network of lakes and waterways added to the scenic appeal, while a series of planned events fostered a sense of community from the very beginning. The town center flourished, with shops, cafes, and restaurants opening their doors to serve residents and visitors alike.

Expansion and Diversification

As Tradition grew, so did its ambitions. The original plan called for a blend of housing types: single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. This diversity allowed the community to attract people from all walks of life—including young families, retirees, and seasonal residents.

The community’s design continued to evolve, responding to changing tastes and demographic trends. Age-restricted neighborhoods such as Vitalia at Tradition were added to cater to active adults aged 55 and older. Meanwhile, new developments like Tradition Medical Center and the Cleveland Clinic campus brought world-class healthcare to the area, establishing Tradition as a regional medical hub.

Education was another cornerstone of Tradition’s growth. Schools were built to serve the growing population, and partnerships with institutions like Florida Atlantic University and Keiser University brought higher education opportunities to the doorstep.

Community and Lifestyle

Tradition’s guiding philosophy has always centered on building community. The annual Tradition Pumpkin Festival, holiday parades, and weekly farmers markets have become beloved staples, drawing crowds from throughout St. Lucie County. Tradition Square, ringed by palm trees and pastel storefronts, hosts free concerts, art fairs, and fitness events year-round.

Walking and biking trails wind through the neighborhoods, connecting residents to parks, playgrounds, and lakes. Dog parks, sports courts, and fitness centers provide spaces for recreation and wellness. The spirit of neighborliness is palpable—block parties, charity runs, and volunteer drives bring people together, creating a strong sense of belonging.

Economic Impact and Innovation

The development of Tradition has had a profound impact on the wider Port St. Lucie economy. The influx of residents spurred demand for local businesses, retail, and healthcare. Tradition Landing, a sprawling shopping complex, offers everything from supermarkets to boutiques, while the business park attracts employers in technology, logistics, and healthcare.

In recent years, Tradition has positioned itself at the forefront of innovation. The addition of the Tradition Center for Innovation exemplifies this—an ambitious plan to create a research and development hub for life sciences, biotech, and related industries. Though some plans evolved in response to changing market conditions, Tradition remains committed to cultivating a dynamic environment for entrepreneurs and innovators.

Resilience and Future Growth

Like all communities in Florida, Tradition has faced challenges. Economic downturns, hurricanes, and shifting real estate markets have tested its resilience. Yet, the community has continued to thrive, thanks to sound planning, strong civic engagement, and ongoing investment in infrastructure and amenities.

Looking forward, Tradition is poised for further growth. New neighborhoods are underway, each building on the foundation of walkability, sustainability, and a high quality of life. Plans for expanded parks, cultural venues, and public spaces ensure that the spirit of Tradition will endure for generations to come.

Conclusion

The history of Tradition in Port St. Lucie, Florida, is a story of vision, perseverance, and community. What began as a bold experiment in new urbanism has blossomed into a vibrant, inclusive, and ever-evolving hometown for thousands. Tradition stands today as a model for master-planned communities, where careful design, civic pride, and a shared sense of purpose have created a place people are proud to call home. As Port St. Lucie continues to grow and change, Tradition will remain a beacon of innovation and belonging on Florida’s Treasure Coast.

EET World is a media company owned by Florida licensed real estate agent Art Hartunian. If you’re thinking of buying or selling a house in Orlando, Southeast Florida, or Space & Treasure Coasts, reach out and he would love to help you realize your goal! We got you covered!! Email Art at arthurhartunian@gmail.com .