South Florida News
Miami-Dade’s Health District Metrorail Station Renamed UHealth | Jackson Station to Promote Healthier Living and Community Access
Published
2 years agoon
MIAMI-DADE, Fla. (FNN) – Today, Miami-Dade County unveiled the newly renamed UHealth | Jackson Station, located at 1501 NW 12 Avenue in the heart of the Health District. Formerly known as the Civic Center Metrorail Station, this renaming marks a significant collaboration between Miami-Dade County, the University of Miami Health System, and Jackson Health System. The new station name serves as a landmark to two of the world’s leading medical care systems, promotes healthier living through collaborative activations, and ensures easier access for transit riders.
This naming rights agreement, led by Mayor Daniella Levine Cava’s Office of Innovation and Economic Development, is the first public-private revenue-generating opportunity for Miami-Dade County involving Jackson and the University of Miami Health System. Approved unanimously by the Board of County Commissioners in June, the partnership will generate nearly $3 million in non-tax revenue and provide numerous benefits for the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW).
Mayor Daniella Levine Cava praised the collaboration, stating, “This innovative partnership with the University of Miami and Jackson showcases the powerful synergy between the private sector, our public health system, and Miami-Dade County. It is a beacon for greater access to healthcare and healthier living. It reflects our commitment to building a robust, efficient public transportation system that is beautiful, functional, safe, and gets you to your destinations faster, including your healthcare provider.”
The station, which has an annual ridership of over 13.4 million and 90,000 annual boardings, is situated in a bustling area frequented by hundreds of thousands of pedestrians and motorists. The renaming aims to remind residents and visitors that they can easily access top-notch healthcare in their community.
District 1 Commissioner and Board Chairman Oliver G. Gilbert, III, expressed his support, “As a proud transit rider and advocate of strong public-private partnerships, this transformative change at one of our busiest Metrorail stations marks a milestone in our commitment to vibrant, accessible public transit. This partnership with the University of Miami Health System and Jackson Health System is a great step forward, and I look forward to more similar initiatives.”
District 3 Commissioner Keon Hardemon added, “This unprecedented collaboration will positively impact my district, our communities, and public transportation. I commend the hard work of everyone involved in bringing this marketing partnership to fruition, which promotes healthier living and greater access to Miami-Dade’s health tech innovation hub.”
Dipen J. Parekh, M.D., chief operating officer of UHealth, emphasized the commitment to accessibility, stating, “Naming this station with our Jackson partners demonstrates our dedication to increasing community access, just as we are expanding UHealth’s presence across Miami-Dade in the coming year.”
To further illustrate this commitment, UHealth will deploy mobile clinics along Metrorail stations over the next 30 days, providing children’s vaccines, screenings, and educational materials.
Carlos A. Migoya, president and CEO of Jackson Health System, highlighted the significance of the renaming, “Properly naming this station UHealth | Jackson reiterates our commitment to enhancing access to Miami’s only academic health system and evolving the Health District into one of the nation’s top medical destinations.”
All signage at the station has been updated to reflect the new name, with partner branding added to various features and elements. The new station name will also appear on digital and static signage throughout the Metrorail system and online.
Francesca de Quesada Covey, Miami-Dade County’s Chief Innovation and Economic Development Officer, concluded, “Our Marketing Partnerships program exemplifies how we innovate County government to build a FutureReady Miami-Dade, improving services for residents and finding win-win opportunities with the private sector.”
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Business
Florida Eye Microsurgical Institute, Mitchell Refractive Surgery & Eye Center Welcome Dr. Anna Walker
Published
2 days agoon
July 6, 2026BOYNTON BEACH, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Florida Eye Microsurgical Institute (FEMI) and Mitchell Refractive Surgery & Eye Center (MRSE) have announced the addition of optometrist Dr. Anna Walker to their medical teams, expanding comprehensive eye care services for patients across Palm Beach County.
Walker provides comprehensive eye care for patients of all ages, specializing in primary eye care, ocular disease management, specialty contact lenses and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy. Her practice focuses on preventive eye health through comprehensive examinations, advanced diagnostic technology and individualized treatment plans.
“Dr. Walker brings excellent clinical training and a compassionate approach to patient care,” said Omayra Alvarado, practice administrator for FEMI. “We are confident she will help further our mission of delivering exceptional eye care across South Florida.”
Walker earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from the New England College of Optometry after receiving a Bachelor of Arts in biology from Stonehill College. She completed her residency at the Malcolm Randall VA Medical Center, where she specialized in comprehensive optometric care with an emphasis on ocular disease management and specialty contact lenses.
Her clinical training also includes refractive surgery co-management, IPL therapy and advanced diagnostic techniques. Walker is certified in laser procedures and injections through the New England College of Optometry.
According to the practices, Walker combines advanced clinical expertise with a personalized approach to patient care, focusing on preserving long-term eye health and improving patients’ quality of life.
Walker will see patients at Florida Eye Microsurgical Institute’s East Boynton Beach office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and at Mitchell Refractive Surgery & Eye Center in Boca Raton on Mondays and Fridays.
Patients interested in scheduling routine eye examinations or establishing ongoing eye care with Dr. Walker can learn more by visiting Florida Eye Microsurgical Institute or Mitchell Refractive Surgery & Eye Center.
South Florida News
Uruguay, Saudi Arabia Play to 1-1 Tie as World Cup Atmosphere Electrifies Miami Gardens
Published
3 weeks agoon
June 16, 2026By
FNN SPORTSMIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — Hard Rock Stadium felt more like Montevideo than South Florida on Monday as tens of thousands of Uruguayan supporters packed the venue for Uruguay’s World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia.
FIFA World Cup 2026, Uruguay vs Arabia Saudita, Miami, Florida. Photo by Harry Castiblanco / Florida National News
A crowd of 62,764 fans created a vibrant international atmosphere, with Uruguay supporters draped in giant blue-and-white flags and chanting “U-ru-guay! U-ru-guay!” throughout the match. Despite the passionate backing, Uruguay was forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia.
The stadium was awash in light blue as Uruguayan fans filled much of the venue, transforming Miami Gardens into a home-away-from-home for La Celeste. Meanwhile, a spirited contingent of Saudi supporters occupied sections of the south stands, waving green flags and providing energetic support for their national team.
FIFA World Cup 2026, Uruguay vs Arabia Saudita, Miami, Florida. Photo by Harry Castiblanco / Florida National News
WORLD CUP ATMOSPHERE IN SOUTH FLORIDA
The match showcased South Florida’s growing reputation as an international soccer destination, drawing fans from across the globe and creating a World Cup-like environment inside Hard Rock Stadium.
Both teams battled evenly throughout the contest, with neither side able to find a decisive breakthrough. The result leaves Uruguay and Saudi Arabia with a point apiece as they continue their tournament campaigns.
FIFA World Cup 2026, Uruguay vs Arabia Saudita, Miami, Florida. Photo by Harry Castiblanco / Florida National News
FANS DELIVER MEMORABLE SCENE
While the match ended in a draw, the atmosphere was among the day’s biggest highlights. The sea of blue-and-white and the nonstop chants from Uruguay supporters were matched by the enthusiasm of Saudi fans, producing a memorable international soccer showcase in Miami Gardens.
Florida
Florida Sen. Shevrin Jones Will Not Seek Re-Election, Fuels Speculation About Congressional Run
Published
1 month agoon
May 31, 2026MIAMI, Fla. (FNN) — Democratic State Sen. Shevrin Jones announced Wednesday that he will not seek re-election to Florida Senate District 34, ending a 13-year tenure in the Florida Legislature and fueling speculation about a possible run for Congress.
Jones, who has represented Senate District 34 since 2020, shared the decision in a video posted on social media.
“After a lot of prayer, reflection, and honest conversations with the people closest to me, I’ve decided that I will not seek re-election to the Florida Senate,” Jones said.
13 Years in the Florida Legislature
Jones was first elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2012, where he served until his election to the Florida Senate in 2020. During his legislative career, he emerged as one of South Florida’s most prominent Democratic lawmakers, advocating on issues including education, healthcare, economic opportunity, and civil rights.
His decision not to seek another term marks the end of more than a decade of service in Tallahassee.
Speculation Grows About Congressional Bid
Jones’ announcement comes as political observers speculate that he may be preparing a campaign for Florida’s 24th Congressional District.
The seat is expected to become open following Congresswoman Frederica Wilson’s decision not to seek re-election in 2026. Wilson has represented the district since 2011 and remains one of South Florida’s most influential Democratic leaders.
Although Jones did not formally announce plans for another office, he acknowledged public interest regarding his political future.
“I know there’s been a lot of conversation about what’s next for me,” Jones said. “And there will be time to talk about that at a later date.”
Open Congressional Seat Draws Attention
Wilson’s departure is expected to trigger a competitive race to succeed her in Congress, with several current and former elected officials reportedly considering bids for the seat.
Jones’ decision to leave the Florida Senate immediately places him among the names being discussed as a potential contender for the congressional district, which includes portions of Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
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