Construction Underway on U.S. 1 Property Near Checkers in Vero Beach

Retention pond relocation paves way for future development on prime commercial site

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Construction activity is currently underway on a property along U.S. 1 in Vero Beach, near the Checkers restaurant. The work involves moving an existing retention pond underground in order to better utilize the space for future development. The property owner, Integra Real Estate Group, is actively seeking potential tenants for the site, which was previously approved for two 4,500-square-foot buildings with shopping and restaurants.

Why it matters

This project represents an opportunity for new commercial development in a high-traffic area of Vero Beach along the U.S. 1 corridor. The relocation of the retention pond will open up the land for more productive use, potentially bringing new businesses, jobs, and tax revenue to the local community.

The details

Integra Real Estate Group President Michael Rechter, who owns the property at 15th Place and U.S. 1, said the current construction activity is limited to moving the existing retention pond underground in order to better utilize the space. Once the pond is relocated and the parking lot is renovated, the property will be ready for future development. Rechter stated that Integra is actively seeking potential tenants, with a number of options competing for the space, though he declined to identify any specific companies until a deal is finalized.

  • Construction on the property began in early 2026 and is expected to be completed by summer.
  • In 2024, a minor site plan was approved for the site to build two 4,508-square-foot buildings with shopping and restaurants.

The players

Integra Real Estate Group

The real estate company that owns the property at 15th Place and U.S. 1 in Vero Beach and is overseeing the current construction and future development plans for the site.

Michael Rechter

The president of Integra Real Estate Group, who provided details about the current construction activity and future development plans for the property.

Vero Beach Planning and Development Department

The local government agency that approved a minor site plan in 2024 for the development of two 4,508-square-foot buildings with shopping and restaurants on the property.

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What they’re saying

“We have to move the water underneath the parking lot.”

— Michael Rechter, President, Integra Real Estate Group

“It's exciting.”

— Michael Rechter, President, Integra Real Estate Group

What’s next

Once the retention pond relocation and parking lot renovation are complete, Integra Real Estate Group will move forward with finding tenants and developing the property, which was previously approved for two 4,500-square-foot commercial buildings.

The takeaway

This project along the U.S. 1 corridor in Vero Beach represents an opportunity for new commercial development and investment in the local community. By relocating the existing retention pond, the property owner is positioning the site for future growth and the potential to attract new businesses, jobs, and tax revenue to the area.