Florida Highway To Be Named After Jimmy Buffett

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The proposal to rename Florida’s A1A Highway in honor of Jimmy Buffett.

State Road A1A, known for its scenic views along Florida’s coast, from Key West in the south to Fernandina Beach in the north, may soon undergo a significant change. A proposal has been introduced to rename this iconic highway after the late singer and songwriter, Jimmy Buffett.

Buffett’s A1A album that referenced the coastal highway.

Buffett, who passed away recently at the age of 76 from Merkel cell cancer, had a strong connection to the state of Florida. Though born in Mississippi and raised in Alabama, Buffett’s musical career intertwined deeply with the Sunshine State.

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His trip to Key West in 1971 was a pivotal moment in his career, leading him to build a life surrounded by his love for music, travel, and storytelling. This connection was further cemented with his A1A album, released in December 1974, which included tracks that referenced the coastal highway.

State Rep. Chuck Clemons filed House Bill 91, proposing an “honorary designation” for certain sections of State Road A1A.

If approved, the highway will adopt the title “Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway” across multiple Florida counties on the East Coast. This would include Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, Brevard, Volusia, Flagler, St. Johns, Duval, and Nassau Counties.

The upcoming 2024 Florida legislative session, starting in January, will determine the fate of this proposal.

Buffett’s influence on music spanned more than five decades, with a distinct style of relaxing country tropical songs. His narratives often transported listeners to beaches, boats, and the laid-back coastal life. This proposal to name the highway after him aims to recognize his contributions and the significant impact he had on the state of Florida. Whether the highway renaming comes to pass or not, Jimmy Buffett’s legacy in relation to the Floridian coast remains undeniable.