Resolution 24-R36 designating property located at 601 North Causeway Drive as a Fort Pierce Historic Property and a Locally Significant Site.

The property owner has submitted a Historic Designation Application for the property at 601 North Causeway Drive and is petitioning the Commission to grant designation as a Historic Property and a Locally Significant Site  based on the following designation criteria:

• Significant Event. Associated with events that have made significant contributions to the pattern of history in the community, the county, the state or the nation; Section 111-123(a)(1) of the City Code. During World War II the US Navy established a unique base on Hutchinson Island to train over 140,000 allied military personnel in amphibious assault and underwater demolition skills in preparation for the Normandy invasion and countless Pacific operations. The original Navy “UDT Frogmen” were created in Fort Pierce, precursors of the current Navy SEALS, and the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum stands in their honor near Pepper Park. When the Navy closed the base in late 1944 the land, including the main gatehouse building on Jim Island and wooden bridge, was given to the City of Fort Pierce.
• Architectural Significance. Embodies the distinctive characteristics of an architectural type, period, style, or method of construction. Section 111-123(a)(3) of the City Code. The ‘Little Jim’ building represents the distinctive characteristics of Florida ‘Cracker Style’ architecture. Situated in a prominent location on A1A it is an easily identifiable visual feature on the waterfront and one of the few remaining structures that reflect the region’s unique architectural style.

On January, 2024, the Historic Preservation Board recommended this property for historic designation.

601 North Causeway Drive. Parcel ID: 1434-100-0000-020-9
 

Maria Lewicka, AICP
Historic Preservation Planner

Staff recognizes the site as significant in its long-time contribution to Fort Pierce commercial, military and community history and heritage and recommends approval of the historic designation of the property under the “Significant Event” and “Architectural Significance” criteria.