Fort Pierce reviews impressive six-month update on fifth Tesla vehicle's ridership impact

The Fort Pierce Redevelopment Agency (FPRA) held a regular meeting on July 8, 2025, focusing on various agenda items, including updates on community projects and the performance of the Freebie transportation service.

The meeting commenced with a discussion on the importance of community input in shaping future projects. Board members expressed enthusiasm for upcoming initiatives that align with resident desires, emphasizing the integral role of public feedback in decision-making.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to an interim update on the performance of the fifth Tesla vehicle added to the Freebie service. The presentation, led by John Janice, Vice President of Economic Development for Freebie, highlighted the program's growth since its launch. Initially starting with four vehicles operating part-time, the service expanded to seven days a week in July 2024, supported by a Florida Department of Transportation grant. The addition of a fifth vehicle in December 2024 has significantly improved service efficiency and ridership.

Janice reported a remarkable 40% increase in ridership from June 2025 compared to November 2024, with nearly 7,000 riders served in June alone. This growth reflects a 109% year-over-year increase and a staggering 500% increase since June 2023. The service has become a vital part of the community, facilitating access to local businesses and enhancing the overall quality of life in Fort Pierce.

Board members raised questions regarding the economic impact of the Freebie service on local businesses and tourism. They emphasized the need for quantifiable data to demonstrate how the service contributes to economic growth and supports local enterprises. The discussion included the potential for further collaboration with the county to explore additional funding and grants to sustain and expand the program.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve a consent item, which was unanimously passed by the board. The FPRA remains committed to enhancing community services and ensuring that the Freebie program continues to meet the needs of Fort Pierce residents and visitors alike. Future meetings will likely focus on gathering more data to assess the economic impact of the Freebie service and exploring ways to further integrate it into the community's transportation framework.