Florida Construction News staff writer
A bill that would prohibit building golf courses, resort-style lodges and sports facilities in Florida’s state parks is moving forward in the Legislature.
The House State Affairs Committee has unanimously approved the bill (HB 209), which aims to preserve the natural integrity of the state’s 175-park system and prevent “unintended development.”
The legislation is a direct response to last year’s controversial “Great Outdoors Initiative,” a Florida Department of Environmental Protection proposal that would have added golf courses, pickleball courts, and 350-room resort lodges at 10 state parks, including Jonathan Dickinson State Park and Anastasia State Park.
Gov. Ron DeSantis dismissed the plan, calling it “half-baked” and said it needed to go “back to the drawing board.”
The new bill strictly prohibits the construction of sporting facilities as well as any development that would damage a park’s natural resources, native habitats, or historical areas. Limited development, including small camping cabins that sleep up to six guests would be allowed, if they align with land management plans.
House Bill 209 is now headed to the House to be voted on.
