Florida Considering Renaming Highway to Honor Jimmy Buffett

Possible rewrite: Future A1A sections may become designated as Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway.

As of the upcoming Monday, it is possible that Florida’s renowned State Road A1A will undergo a name change and become the Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway. The Florida Legislature recently passed two bills, both of which were unanimously approved by the state Senate. These bills serve as a tribute to the late musician who tragically passed away at 76 years old last year.

One of the two legislations aims to alter sections of the 340-mile long roadway, extending from Jimmy’s past residence in Key West all the way north to Fernandina Beach near Jacksonville. Specific areas in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and Monroe Counties would be designated as Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway, a name that coincidentally matches his fifth album title.

The second bill authorized a fresh Florida license plate design, inspired by Buffett, featuring the phrase “Margaritaville.” This phrase was taken from his famous song and also references his establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. The profits generated from the sale of these license plates would be donated to a charitable organization created by Jimmy himself, known as Singing for Change. This foundation aims to provide aid to those affected by hurricanes.

According to Republican state Senator Gayle Harrell, “Margaritaville is just what Florida is all about.” In an interview with the Associated Press, she emphasized that no one embodies the essence of the state’s open sun, sandy beaches, and vibrant music scene quite like Jimmy Buffett and his Margaritaville brand.

In October of 2023, Republican lawmaker Chuck Clemons introduced a bill in response to the passing of Jimmy, and it seems that his efforts may finally pay off as the proposed legislation gains traction in the Florida House of Representatives. Some locals are advocating for the renaming of Key West International Airport in honor of Buffett, with plans to have it situated along what is now known as Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway.

Source: Associated Press