Central Florida News

Governor Ron DeSantis Awards $4 Million for New I-75 Interchange in Ocala

Published

2 years ago

April 7, 2023

OCALA, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $4 million to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund to add a new interchange at I-75 and Northwest 49^th Street in Marion County. These funds will create new opportunities for the Ocala area by building infrastructure needed to support a new Buc-ee’s location, reducing traffic congestion at other Ocala area I-75 interchanges and expanding access to I-75 for two industrial and commercial development complexes and the nearby World Equestrian Center. The new Buc-ee’s location is the third to be built in Florida and will consist of an 80,000-square foot travel center, supporting 120 fuel pumps with more than 720 parking spots for visitors. FDOT’s infrastructure project is expected to have and economic impact off $21 million and create 1,500 new jobs. The new interchange will further establish the City of Ocala as a strategic Central Florida hub for freight-related traﬃc.

“By making strategic investments like today’s $4 million Job Growth Grant Fund Award, Florida will continue to fuel economic growth across the state,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Ocala’s ideal location at the center of our state makes it prime for new manufacturing opportunities and for visitors looking for a place to stop and grab some beaver nuggets. I look forward to seeing the opportunities this award will create for Floridians, businesses and communities in Central Florida.”

“FDOT is grateful to have a leader like Governor DeSantis who understands the value of investing in infrastructure to serve as an economic engine and prepare Florida for the future,” said FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “This new I-75 interchange is more than just a road. Building this interchange greatly benefits our great state by connecting local communities, creating jobs, improving regional and statewide travel for residents, visitors, and freight-related traffic, and helping to improve the resiliency of Florida’s transportation network.”

“Today’s investment in Marion County further emphasizes Governor DeSantis’ dedication to ensuring Florida’s communities have the resources they need to attract and retain businesses and high-paying jobs for their residents,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce and President and CEO of Enterprise Florida Laura DiBella. “Economic development is a true team effort, and we are proud to work alongside FDOT and DEO under our Governor’s leadership to make critical investments in our communities.”

“We are very excited about being here in Florida. We have had a lot of success in the two stores that we have operating on Interstate 95 and we’ve known for a long time that Interstate 75 would be a great location but we were looking for the right piece of property,” said Arch “Beaver” Aplin, Founder and CEO of Buc-ee’s. “I can’t say enough good things about the statistics that make Florida special. Businesses want to be in Florida because it is a pro-business state and the jobs those policies bring. I look forward to seeing everyone at a groundbreaking and a ribbon cutting soon.”

The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund is an economic development program designed to promote public infrastructure and workforce training across the state. Proposals are reviewed by DEO and Enterprise Florida, Inc. (EFI), and are chosen by Governor DeSantis to meet the demands for workforce training or infrastructure needs in communities around the state.

DEO and EFI are currently accepting proposals until all funding has been awarded. For more information, visit www.FloridaJobs.org/JobGrowth.

Central Florida News

Orange County Launches Month-Long Earth Day Celebration with Eco-Friendly Events

Published

4 weeks ago

April 2, 2025

FNN NEWS

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) – In honor of Earth Day on April 22, Orange County is transforming April into a month-long celebration of sustainability, conservation, and environmental education. Residents and visitors will have access to a wide range of activities designed to promote eco-friendly practices and raise awareness about protecting natural resources.

Earth Month 2025: A Community Effort to Preserve the Planet

Throughout April, Orange County will host interactive events, workshops, and educational programs aimed at fostering a greener future. The initiative highlights the County’s commitment to environmental stewardship, conservation, and sustainable living.

Key Activities Include:

Eco-Scavenger Hunt: Engage in a fun and interactive challenge to explore nature and sustainability efforts across the county.
Florida-Friendly Landscaping Workshops: Learn how to create a beautiful, low-maintenance garden using native plants and water-efficient techniques.
Water Conservation Classes: Gain valuable tips on reducing water waste and improving efficiency at home.
Beginner Beekeeping Workshops: Discover the essential role of bees in the ecosystem and learn how to start your own hive.
Oyster Mushroom Cultivation: Learn how to grow your own nutritious mushrooms at home.
Spring Vegetable Gardening: Get expert advice from the University of Florida Orange County Extension Office (UF/IFAS) on growing seasonal vegetables.

Join the Movement for a Greener Future

The month-long Earth Month celebration encourages Orange County residents to take action by adopting eco-friendly habits and participating in educational programs that support sustainability.

For a full list of events and registration details, visit www.ocfl.net/EarthMonth.

Stay tuned to Florida National News for updates on Orange County’s Earth Month 2025 initiatives.

Central Florida News

2026 Orange County Mayor’s Race Heats Up: Tiffany Moore Russell Declares Candidacy

Published

4 weeks ago

April 2, 2025

Willie David

Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Morre Russell speaks at the Orange County Board of County Commissioners. Photo by Florida National News / J Willie David, III

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) – Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Moore Russell has officially filed paperwork to run for Orange County Mayor in the 2026 election, according to the Orange County Supervisor of Elections website. Russell, a trailblazing leader in local government, seeks to succeed Mayor Jerry Demings, who will complete his final term in 2026.

Russell’s Historic Leadership in Orange County

Russell is no stranger to breaking barriers. In 2014, she made history as the first African American female Clerk of Courts elected in Florida and the first African American Clerk in Orange County. Before that, she served as the District 6 Orange County Commissioner, first elected in 2006 at just 27 years old, making her the youngest commissioner ever elected in the county. She successfully served two terms on the commission, advocating for economic development, public safety, and affordable housing.

As Orange County Clerk of Courts, Russell has led efforts to modernize the court system, improve public access to legal services, and enhance transparency in county government. Under her leadership, the Clerk’s Office has expanded online services, improved efficiency, and increased community engagement through outreach programs.

The Role of Orange County Mayor

The Orange County Mayor is one of the most powerful local government positions in Central Florida, overseeing a $4.4 billion budget and more than 8,000 county employees while serving a population of approximately 1.5 million residents.

With Mayor Demings unable to seek re-election due to term limits, Russell’s candidacy sets the stage for a highly competitive race. Other potential contenders include:

Former U.S. Congresswoman Val Demings, who previously considered a run in 2014 but later dropped out.
Former U.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy.
Orange County Commissioner Mayra Uribe.
Former Orange County Commissioners Emily Bonilla and Scott Boyd.
Former Orange County Property Appraiser Rick Singh.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Russell’s deep-rooted experience in public service and history-making leadership make her a formidable candidate in the non-partisan race. As the campaign unfolds, voters will look for candidates with strong leadership, financial management expertise, and a vision for Orange County’s future.

Stay connected with Florida National News for updates on the 2026 Orange County mayoral race.

________________________________________________________________

J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
News@FloridaNationalNews.com

Central Florida News

Congressman Maxwell Frost Takes Questions on Economy, Education, and Federal Cuts in Orlando Reddit AMA

Published

4 weeks ago

April 2, 2025

FNN NEWS

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) took to Reddit’s r/Orlando community this past Friday for an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session, addressing Central Floridians’ concerns on inflation, federal funding freezes, and the future of the Democratic Party. The discussion garnered over 81,000 views, 1,000 upvotes, and more than 350 comments and questions from local residents.

Congressman Frost on Economic Policy & Rising Costs

One Reddit user asked: Do House Democrats have a plan to offer an alternative to Trump’s economic policy?

Congressman Frost responded:

“We can’t just oppose Trump’s billionaire takeover—we must provide our vision. People don’t want marginal improvements, they want bold, transformational change.
Expanding Medicare so no one must choose between medical bills and rent.
Increasing affordable housing and enacting strong renter protections.
Holding corporations accountable for price gouging and price fixing.
Raising the minimum wage so workers aren’t stuck with $7.25 an hour.
We have a popular agenda, and we must fight to reclaim the narrative. While Republicans cover up their SignalGate scandal, Democrats are working to lower costs. I’ve championed price-lowering legislation to reduce property insurance costs, grocery prices, rental fees, and prescription drug costs, including capping EpiPen prices.”

Concerns Over Federal Education Cuts & Public School Support

Another Orlando resident expressed concerns over federal funding cuts to Title I schools, fearing that many students will lose access to free lunch programs.

Congressman Frost, whose mother was a public school teacher for 37 years, responded:

“Florida’s state government is actively working to dismantle public education. Title I funding is crucial for schools serving low-income communities. In February, I marched with fellow members of Congress to the Department of Education’s doors to fight back against threats to public education.
It took Department of Homeland Security officers in body armor to keep us out. That should tell you how serious this is.
Parents, teachers, and school administrators must pressure elected officials at all levels to oppose Trump’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education. A strong federal education system is more important than ever.”

Food Insecurity: Second Harvest’s Government Support Cut

A Reddit user voiced concerns over Second Harvest Food Bank losing federal food shipments, which impacts over 300 local food pantries, churches, and shelters that rely on their support.

Congressman Frost assured residents that he is taking action:

“This week, the Trump Administration canceled federal food shipments to Second Harvest, and it’s likely not a temporary cut. Hunger is a devastating crisis, affecting both physical and mental health.
I was able to secure $200,000 for Second Harvest to help offset their energy costs for food storage, but I will continue fighting for more resources to ensure families in our district don’t go hungry.”