As you are aware, a recent ruling by a federal district judge in Miami-Dade to halt rock mining within the county will have catastrophic effects on the state’s transportation system.  According to the Department of Transportation, 30 to 40 percent of the rock mined in Florida came from Miami-Dade, so this significant decrease is driving up prices rapidly throughout the state.   This week, the Naples Daily News posted an article on this issue.  To read it, click here. 

Another item of extreme importance is the upcoming special session on the state budget.  Unfortunately, transportation funding in Florida is at risk again.  Nearly $80 million in Transportation Trust Fund dollars have already been targeted for diversion.   

As always, the Florida Chamber is excited to partner with Doug Callaway, President of Floridians for Better Transportation, on this very important issue.  It is important to remember that for every $1 the state invests in transportation infrastructure, we receive a $7 return!  Given today’s bleak budget forecast, it is imperative for the state to continue to invest dollars in areas with a proven high rate of return.  Please act now and contact the Governor and Legislature and urge them not to raid the Transportation Trust Fund!   

If you have any questions, please call me directly at (850) 521-1251.