The Oak Ridge Ranches development in Port St. Lucie is set to span over 3,300 acres. At that size, it’s one of the largest planned residential projects in the history of St. Lucie County. With a total of 8,600 homes proposed, the development—also known as Solaeris—would reshape the western boundaries of Port St. Lucie.
St. Lucie County commissioners have already approved site plans for five sub-sections, or pods, of the project. These approvals represent nearly half of the development’s residential capacity. However, the project has sparked debates among county leaders, with questions surrounding housing density, infrastructure demands, and environmental impact.
Approvals & Development Layout
Oak Ridge Ranches will be a mixed-use community west of Range Line Road and north of Glades Cut-Off Road. Planned features currently include single-family homes, multi-family units, recreational facilities, commercial spaces, and an 18-hole golf course.
Approved Pods
These are the current sections of the development, also called pods, that have been approved.
- Siena at Solaeris
- 679 single-family homes
- 5-acre amenity center
- Density: 3.39 units per acre
- Storybook at Solaeris
- 500 single-family homes
- 3.17-acre amenity center
- Density: 3.16 units per acre
- Azure at Solaeris
- 552 single-family homes
- 2.74-acre amenity center
- Density: 1.78 units per acre
Two additional pods, Esplanade at Solaeris and Meridian by Meritage, were previously approved. Together, these will add nearly 1,500 homes, a large amenity center, and a golf course.
Controversy Among Commissioners
Tuesday’s commission meeting revealed tensions among county leaders. Commissioners James Clasby and Erin Lowry, both newly elected, opposed the recent site plans, citing concerns about housing density and inadequate space between properties. Some proposed homes have setbacks of just five feet, which Clasby criticized as “unsuitable for quality living.”
Commissioner Jamie Fowler defended the project, stating the need to offer diverse housing options for the region’s growing population. “We have to provide housing types for all different people, whether we like it or not,” she said. Commissioner Cathy Townsend echoed Fowler’s stance, reminding colleagues that rejecting previously approved plans could lead to legal challenges.
Challenges & Community Concerns
Infrastructure Strain
Road infrastructure remains a pressing issue. The developer, Kolter Homes, has committed to roadway expansions, but the scale of development—projected to house over 25,000 residents—raises concerns about traffic congestion.
Density and Urban Sprawl
With densities ranging from 1.78 to 3.39 units per acre, some commissioners and residents worry about urban sprawl and the loss of rural land. Environmental advocates have also called for greater preservation of wetlands.
Proximity to Chemical Plant
Oak Ridge Ranches borders a facility storing hazardous materials. While safety measures are being reviewed, some residents remain apprehensive about the risks.
Affordable Housing
Kolter Homes has agreed to include 400 affordable housing units, addressing calls for worker housing in the growing city. The development will also include two K-8 schools to serve the community.
Looking Ahead
Oak Ridge Ranches marks a significant step in Port St. Lucie’s westward expansion. With its scale and scope, the project reflects the city’s response to rapid population growth and housing demand. Yet, it also highlights the challenges of balancing development with quality of life, environmental stewardship, and infrastructure readiness.
Construction is already underway in some areas, with further site plans awaiting county approval. As the project progresses, community input and continued oversight will be critical in ensuring that this mega-development aligns with the needs of its future residents and the broader region.
