TRAM-formation Complete: Tropical Vibes Now Rolling Through Stuart!
The City of Stuart’s open-air TRAM (Tourism Related Area Mobility) entire fleet has a bold new look—and you can’t miss it! Wrapped in eye-catching hues of hibiscus pink, lagoon blue, zesty lime, and tangerine twist, these colorful electric vehicles are bringing serious tropical vibes to Downtown Stuart and the Creek and Triangle Districts.
But the TRAM isn’t just a fun splash of color—it’s a free, easy, and eco-friendly way to explore the heart of Stuart. Operating seven days a week, the TRAM runs continuous loops on two convenient routes:
- Downtown Loop – Connects you to key destinations like City Hall, the Riverwalk, Lyric Theatre, and public parking areas.
- East Stuart Loop – Serves neighborhoods east of downtown, with access to parks, community centers, and the downtown district.
Need a lift? Call the TRAM directly at (772) 260-0126 to request a pickup or check when one will be near your location.
Want to learn more or book a historic TRAM tour? Visit: stuartfl.gov/213/TRAM-Routes-Information
Whether you're strolling the Riverwalk, shopping on Osceola Street, or grabbing lunch at a local favorite, the TRAM gets you there—no car required, just good vibes.
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Labor Day Holiday Closures & Sanitation Schedule
City offices will be closed on Monday, September 1, 2025, in observance of Labor Day. Sanitation schedules will be adjusted as follows:
- Garbage Carts: Monday's pickup will occur on Tuesday, Sept. 2; Tuesday's pickup will occur on Wednesday, Sept. 3. Regular schedule resumes Thursday, Sept. 4.
- Recycle: Normal schedule - no change.
- Yard Debris: Monday's pickup will be on Tuesday, Sept. 2; Tuesday's pickup will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 3.
- Bulk Trash: The Wednesday bulk route will be collected on Thursday, Sept. 4; the Thursday bulk route will be collected on Friday, Sept. 5.
View complete Sanitation Schedule for 2025 HERE.
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Five Minutes with Ruth Holmes: The City's New Environmental Attorney
We’re excited to welcome Ruth Holmes to the City of Stuart as our new Environmental Attorney! With a legal career spanning nearly three decades and a passion for science-driven advocacy, Ruth brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to environmental stewardship.
A Career Rooted in Curiosity and Conservation
Ruth began practicing law in 1997, focusing primarily on environmental law and litigation. Her journey into the field was sparked by firsthand experiences in the Florida Keys, where she worked in the dive boat industry. “Looe Key reef was my office,” she recalls. “I watched it change dramatically in just a few years, and that sparked my curiosity about reef bleaching and coastal system health.”
That curiosity, combined with a love for science and justice, led Ruth to a career where she could blend both. “I’ve been fortunate to work for clients and government organizations that prioritize conservation, cleanup, and environmental balance,” she says.
Why Stuart?
Ruth’s decision to join the City of Stuart was driven by the community’s commitment to environmental health. “The support from the Commission and community really stood out,” she shares. “I’ve done similar work for Martin County and saw how often the St. Lucie River and nearby reefs are overlooked at the state level. With long-term support, I believe we can change that—and I want to be part of that change.”
A Message to the Community
When asked what she wants residents to know about protecting our river, Ruth’s answer is clear: “Trust valid science. Don’t rely on the phrase, ‘this is the way we’ve always done it.’”
Beyond the Courtroom
Outside of work, Ruth is an avid cyclist, a budding golfer, and a seasoned backpacker who has hiked parts of the Appalachian Trail, the Inca Trail, and several western mountain ranges. She’s also a proud pet parent to Jake, an orange cat who rules the neighborhood, and Trip, a retired racing greyhound who loves car rides.
Looking Ahead
Ruth’s long-term goal? “To keep learning from people smarter than I am and to never be discouraged by those who say good things can’t be done.”
Please join us in giving Ruth Holmes a warm welcome to the City of Stuart!
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PHASE II OF DOWNTOWN WAYFINDING SIGNAGE PROGRAM LAUNCHES IN CREEK DISTRICT
Help Visitors Discover Your Business!
The City of Stuart’s Downtown Wayfinding Signage Program is expanding! Designed to guide pedestrians to local businesses, this initiative began with signage in the Old Downtown District (Phase I). Now, Phase II is rolling out in The Creek Arts & Entertainment District along South Colorado Avenue.
New Sign Locations Proposed:
- Flagler Ave & Colorado Ave
- Colorado Ave & 5th Street
- Colorado Ave & 6th Street
- Colorado Ave & Martin Luther King Blvd
- Colorado Ave & Frazier Creek Plaza
How to Apply:
Local businesses in The Creek District can apply for a spot on one of the new wayfinding signs. Space is limited and will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis—or via lottery if demand exceeds availability.
Application Fee: $50 (non-refundable)
Application Form: https://www.stuartfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6279/Downtown-Wayfinding-Signage-Program_GUIDELINES-AND-APPLICATION
What’s Next?
Phase III will extend signage eastward, with proposed locations at:
- Osceola Street & SE Detroit Ave
- Ocean Boulevard & SE Denver Ave
Still Want In on Phase I?
There’s still space available on the original wayfinding poles in the Old Downtown District! More details and how to apply HERE.
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HURRICANE PREPARENDNESS
10 Steps to Help Your Children Get Ready for a Hurricane
As hurricane season approaches, preparing your home is only part of the equation—helping your children feel safe and ready is just as important. Here are 10 practical steps to guide families in getting kids emotionally and physically prepared for a storm:
1. Talk About It Early
Start the conversation before a storm is on the radar. Use age-appropriate language to explain what hurricanes are and why preparation is important. Reassure them that adults are working hard to keep everyone safe.
2. Create a Family Emergency Plan
Involve your children in creating a plan. Discuss where you’ll go if you need to evacuate, how you’ll stay in touch, and what to do if you get separated. Practice your plan together.
3. Build a Kid-Friendly Emergency Kit
Let your child help pack their own go-bag. Include essentials like clothes, snacks, water, a flashlight, and comfort items like a favorite toy or book. This gives them a sense of control and security.
4. Make a Communication Card
Create a small card with important phone numbers and addresses. Laminate it and keep it in your child’s backpack or emergency kit.
5. Explain What to Expect
Describe what might happen during a hurricane—strong winds, power outages, loud noises—and how you’ll stay safe. Knowing what to expect can reduce fear.
6. Limit Media Exposure
Too much news coverage can be overwhelming. Monitor what your children see and hear and be available to answer their questions calmly.
7. Assign Age-Appropriate Tasks
Give your child a role in storm prep, like gathering batteries or helping secure outdoor items. Feeling helpful can ease anxiety.
8. Practice Calm Together
Teach simple breathing exercises or mindfulness techniques. These can help children (and adults!) stay calm during stressful moments.
9. Stay Positive and Reassuring
Your tone and body language matter. Stay calm and confident and remind your children that you’re prepared and together.
10. Debrief After the Storm
Once it’s safe, talk about the experience. Let your child share their feelings and ask questions. Praise their bravery and involvement.
Final Thought:
Preparation is more than just stocking up on supplies—it’s about building emotional resilience. By involving your children in the process, you’re not only keeping them safe, but also empowering them with confidence and knowledge.
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Traffic Advisories & Alerts
For the most up-to-date traffic advisories and alerts, visit ROAD / LANE CLOSURES on the City of Stuart website.
1. Intermittent lane shifts/closures and detours, Palm Street between Dixie Highway and Stuart Ave., Monday, July 21, 2025, through Thursday, October 9, 2025, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Landscaping and paving)
2. Intermittent lane shifts/closures and detours, Oleander Street between Dixie Highway and North River Drive, Monday, July 21, 2025, through Thursday, October 9, 2025, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Parallel parking, concrete work and paving.)
3. Intermittent lane shifts/closures and detours, Oleander Street from Stuart Avenue to Dixie Highway. Monday, July 21, 2025, through Thursday, October 9, 2025. (Parallel parking, concrete work and paving.)
4. Intermittent lane shifts/closures and detours, Australian Street between Stuart Ave. and North River Drive. Monday, July 21, 2025, through October 9, 2025, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Parallel parking, sod & paving.)
5. Intermittent lane shifts/closures and detours, Australian Street between Dixie Highway and North River Drive. Monday, July 21, 2025, to Thursday, October 9, 02025, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Parallel parking, sod and paving.)
6. Intermittent lane shifts/closures and detours, Stuart Ave. between Palm St. and Oleander St. Monday, July 21, 2025, through Thursday, October 9, 2025, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Parallel parking and paving.)
7. Intermittent lane shifts/closures and detours, Stuart Avenue from Australian Street to Oleander Street. Monday, July 21, 2025, through Thursday, October 9, 2025, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Parallel parking and paving.)
8. Intermittent lane shifts/closures and detours, NW Poinsettia Street from Dixie Highway to North River Drive. Monday, July 21, 2025, through Thursday, October 9, 2025, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Parking and road pavement.)
9. Downtown Stuart temporary lane closures and lane shifts, week of September 2, 2025:
- SW Seminole Street from S. Colorado to SW St. Lucie Avenue will close on 5/27/2025 and remain closed until November 2025.
- S Colorado from SW Osceola to Seminole including intersections- flaggers will be on hand to direct traffic.
- SW Osceola Street from S Colorado to SW St. Lucie Ave - flaggers will be on hand to direct traffic.
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City of Stuart Commission meetings, conducted in the City Hall Chambers, are streamed live. (View HERE). City Hall Chambers are open to the public during the meetings.
View past meeting agendas and meeting minutes HERE.
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Ruth Holmes being sworn in as Environmental Attorney at the August 25, 2025, City Commission Meeting.
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Jeremy Sweeting (center) with City Commissioners at the August 25, 2025, commission meeting. Mr. Sweeting, who serves as the Chief Councillor of The Great Abaco Cays District Council (formerly Hope Town District Council) spoke at the meeting thanking the City of Stuart for being a Sister City and remarking on the hurricane recovery assistance his district received from area residents following Hurricane Dorian.
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Future City of Stuart Meetings
HOLIDAY - ALL CITY OFFICES CLOSED
Monday, September 1, 2025
City Commission Meeting
Monday, September 8, 2025 - 4:00 p.m.
Special Commission Meeting
Tentative Millage & Tentative Budget
Monday, September 8, 2025 - 5:15 p.m.
Local Planning Agency / Planning Advisory Board
Thursday, September 11, 2025 - 5:30 p.m.
Community Redevelopment Board
Monday, September 15, 2025 - 4:00 p.m.
Magistrate Hearing
Wednesday, September 17, 2025 - 2:00 p.m.
Community Redevelopment Agency
Monday, September 22, 2025 - 4:00 p.m.
Special Commission Meeting
Final Millage & Final Budget
Monday, September 22, 2025 - 5:15 p.m.
City Commission Meeting
Monday, September 22, 2025 - 5:30 p.m.
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Calendar of Events
Market on Main
Every Sunday, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Flagler Park, 201 SW Flagler Avenue
Produced by Stuart Main Street
More Information: (772) 286-2848
Rock'n Riverwalk
Every Sunday, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Riverwalk Stage, 300 St. Lucie Avenue
Produced by Stuart Main Street and DBA
More information: (772) 286-2848
View all events HERE.
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