TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – On Monday, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection released a sobering report showing that Florida’s state parks face a staggering $759 million backlog in needed repairs and upgrades to maintain safe, accessible, and enjoyable outdoor spaces for all Floridians. The report also outlines the substantial long-term investment required over the next decade to sustain and strengthen all 175 state parks across the state.
This report was made possible by the passage of the State Park Preservation Act during the 2025 legislative session. Floridians overwhelmingly supported this legislation not only to prevent harmful development, but to ensure our state parks remain pristine, resilient, and welcoming for generations to come.
“Sierra Club Florida’s work to protect our state parks didn’t end with the passage of the State Park Preservation Act, and it won’t end until every one of Florida’s parks is fully protected, properly maintained, and accessible to all. Floridians have made it clear that they value their state parks and expect their elected leaders to safeguard them. Now the Legislature must finish the job. Increasing funding for our parks and all the needed repairs isn’t optional; it’s essential to preserving Florida’s natural heritage and ensuring that future generations can experience the beauty we cherish today.” – Javier Estevez, Political and Legislative Director, Sierra Club Florida Chapter
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