Update on the Florida Office of Greenways & Trails

Dear Friends of Florida Trails:

I wanted to share some wonderful news with you and explain what has just happened, and is expected to happen, as it relates to the Florida Office of Greenways and Trails (OGT).  OGT is the reigning recipient of the National “Best Trails State” as awarded by American Trails and, as you know, is a highly valued partner.  Again like last year, they were circled for elimination earlier this week by the Florida Senate despite their success in building partnerships and leveraging funding.  However due to the enormous and coordinated grassroots support that was demonstrated by us last year, the threat for the most part was quickly dropped.  We owe a special thank you to Senators Aronberg, Lawson and Baker of the Senate General Government Appropriations Committee!  No, really…..

We still have work to do though.  The OGT is no longer targeted for elimination and most of the mission and subsequent positions have been restored.  All but 2 of the positions will be back another year to continue to serve and build our ever expanding statewide system of trails.  Senator Aronberg supports us strongly and has sponsored an amendment to restore the remaining 2 positions at a meeting that will, most likely, occur on Friday.  Please take a moment to thank and say something nice to our legislative Champions – Senators Aronberg, Lawson and Baker as well as to our important House friends – Representatives Robaina and Cannon.  Without them we would be roadkill!

Their e-mail addresses are:

Senator Aronberg – aronberg.dave.web@flsenate.gov

Senator Lawson – lawson.alfred.web@flsenate.gov

Senator Baker – baker.carey.web@flsenate.gov

Representative Robaina – julio.robaina@myfloridahouse.gov

Representative  Cannon – dean.cannon@myfloridahouse.gov

Thank you and stay tuned.  I hope to have an important announcement concerning the Florida Department of Transportation soon!!!!

Take Care.

Ken Bryan, Florida Director

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy