Development Threatens Flying Eagles' 20-Year St. Lucie Flying Field

A radio control flying club that has operated on a 5.5-acre patch of undeveloped land off Interstate 95 in northern St. Lucie County for more than two decades may soon be forced out as the property faces potential residential development.

The Flying Eagles Radio Control Club has long used the site on the north side of Indrio Road — directly across from where a future Buc-ee's is expected to be built — to fly model aircraft and foster community among hobbyists. The property was recently sold, and members say development into homes appears likely.

Kevin Ballash, who has maintained the grounds by mowing the acreage three times a week, said the prospect of displacement was never unexpected. "We always knew from day one it may be numbered," Ballash said. He added that the stakes extend well beyond finding a new airstrip. "You lose friends every time a club closes," Ballash said.

Club member Jeff Kramer said the hobby has grown more accessible over the years, with most aircraft today made of foam and priced at a few hundred dollars, though some planes can run into the thousands. "It's fun, it's educational and the camaraderie we have in the club can't be beat," Kramer said.

The club was in the process of breaking down its setup at the site, possibly for the last time. Ballash said he is actively searching for a new location and is awaiting responses from several potential sites. "I've got places I'm looking at, and I've got places that I'm waiting for an answer on," Ballash said.

St. Lucie County officials said the county is not aware of any current requests to find space for radio control clubs. A county spokesman noted that about a year ago, a separate club that had been using South Florida Water Management District land sought county assistance but no suitable space was found at that time.

A closer alternative exists in Port St. Lucie, though that club does not permit gas-powered aircraft. Other regional clubs operate in Sebastian, West Palm Beach and Delray Beach According to available information,.

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