Florida Spends Majority of Its Federal Infrastructure Dollars on Transportation
Of the $18.4 billion in federal funds allocated to Florida for infrastructure initiatives, a hefty $11.8 billion will be dedicated to transportation projects. This marks a clear commitment to modernizing and expanding the state’s roads, bridges, and other transportation systems, which are vital for both public safety and economic growth.
New Howard Frankland Bridge Opens in Days
The new Howard Frankland Bridge, set to open on March 25, marks a major milestone in Florida's efforts to improve infrastructure. The $865 million project includes eight lanes—four general-purpose and four tolled express lanes—to alleviate traffic congestion between Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. Additionally, the bridge will feature a bicycle/pedestrian trail, further connecting...
Understanding Eminent Domain: What It Is and Isn’t
Eminent domain frequently raises concerns among affected property and business owners, prompting questions about their rights and protections throughout the process. Misconceptions, such as the belief that compensation cannot be negotiated, that owners have no voice during the process, or that business losses are not compensable, often add to confusion around the...
Broward Health Acquires Land for Major Facility Expansions
Broward Health, a leading public healthcare system in Florida, is actively expanding to enhance patient care and meet the needs of a growing population. As a government entity under the North Broward Hospital District, it has the authority to acquire private property through eminent domain when necessary to fulfill its mission of...
Aftermath of Hurricane Helene in the Big Bend
Hurricane Helene has left a devastating impact on Florida’s Big Bend region, with over 86,000 people still without power and countless homes reduced to rubble. Gov. Ron DeSantis acknowledged the scale of the destruction, noting the historic storm surges and severe winds that ravaged the area. Despite the challenges, there has been...
The Costs and Delays in Building a U.S. Highway
Funding issues are one of the common causes of delays in road construction projects in Florida and across the U.S., largely due to the tremendous project costs. Research indicates that the U.S. spends significantly more on road construction compared to other high-income countries. The article attributes high project expenses with reduced staffing...
Expanding Bike Lanes in Florida: Balancing Transportation Needs and Property Rights
In recent years, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has been increasingly focused on integrating bike lanes into new road construction projects across the state. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to fostering sustainable and multimodal transportation options while addressing the needs of cyclists and communities. However, the addition of bike lanes...
Wireless EV Charging Highway in Central Florida Begins Construction
The Central Florida Expressway Authority initiated construction on the new SR-516 toll road with wireless electric vehicle (EV) charging capabilities, linking Highway 27 to State Road 429. This innovative road will embed inductive charging coils, transferring energy wirelessly to EVs as they travel along the road. Initially, EV charging will be limited...
What is the Purpose of a PD&E Study?
As a property owner losing land due to eminent domain in a transportation project, you may want to learn more about the planning and consideration that brings the project to life. One of the key stages is the Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study, which is conducted by the government entity assigned...
Ortiz Avenue Expansion in Lee County Begins Construction
Today marks the start of the widening of Ortiz Avenue, located in Fort Myers, Florida. The project limits are between Colonial and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevards and is estimated to cost a total of $31 million. By Spring of 2026, the highly utilized two-lane roadway will be widened to four lanes. ...