Issue 169, March 13
This past week, we heard from FDOT District Two Secretary Greg Evans. We learned all the facets covered by the FDOT, plus many of the major projects in the works by the agency. This District covers 18 counties, and not only manages everything involved with the roads, they plan, manage, and support economic growth and have the ultimate goal of being congestion and fatality free.
It is home to more than 1.9 million residents. It covers nearly 12,000 square miles. Travelers on the state highway system log more than 43.2 million miles daily. Two major transit authorities, assisted by the FDOT, operate in the district. The area is served by two deep-water ports, three major rail lines, and 144 public and private airports.
The district secretary manages a five-year plan, with funding coming from the state, gas taxes, and tolls. Maintenance is the most consuming, and the current largest project is the widening of the Shands Bridge. This project should start construction soon and will become the Southern Beltway connecting all the way to I-95.
Also, this week, an enthusiastic group of volunteers worked four different shifts at TPC, serving refreshments and earning money for our non-profit leg, SBMC Charities. All the shift money and tips collected will help fund our Christmas Kids program and some of our scholarships.
This week’s meeting we have a change of programs. Join us to hear Bennett Brown as he speaks on Old Glory Bank, a bank started by three legendary conservative figures who teamed up to launch their own independent bank. They wanted to compete with “other banks” that “have marginalized and ignored, hard-working patriots who keep this country running every day.”
Join us for an informative meeting and don’t forget to wear your green. Bring a door prize and get your business recognized.
Cheers!
Jeanne Maron
2023 President
