FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 9, 2018
Governor and Cabinet Approve Purchase of Seminole
County Trail Connector
~Long-awaited parcel
will provide key link, connecting existing sections of the Cross Seminole Trail~
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Governor Scott and the Florida Cabinet approved a
land exchange with the city of Winter Springs that will complete a
significant portion of the Cross Seminole Trail. The long-sought 1.36-acre parcel will join
two distinct segments of the trail, providing greater recreational access to
the natural and residential communities west of Lake Jesup.
“DEP is proud to make
strategic land exchanges and acquisitions like this one, which benefit not only
our environment but our communities,” said DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein. “DEP
is committed to working with local communities to expand our trail system and
give residents and visitors even more opportunities to enjoy the natural
resources that make Florida the best state in the nation to live, work and
recreate.”
The Cross Seminole Trail is a paved recreational trail that has
been designated as one of Seminole County’s Showcase Trails because of its
length, beauty and accommodations for trail enthusiasts. It is a component of
the Florida National Scenic Trail and the Florida Greenways and Trails Priority
System.
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam
said, “Florida’s natural spaces, greenways and trails are second to none, and I
was proud to vote in favor of this land exchange today to finish a significant
portion of the Cross Seminole Trail."
Charles Lacey, Mayor, city of Winter Springs said, “Finalizing the purchase of land to complete
the Cross Seminole Trail is very important to the community and to me
personally. I congratulate the city’s residents who joined me in our determined
effort to finally connect this beautiful, recreational pathway. To me, joining
the trail in the heart of our city, forever links the can do spirit of Winter
Springs with the wider community of Seminole County.”
The 0.44-acre parcel being conveyed to the city will also benefit
trail users by providing trail access, improved access to an existing park from
the trail and restroom facilities.
John Horan, Chairman, Seminole
County said, “Seminole County greatly appreciates the cooperation of the state
of Florida, the city of Winter Springs and the Seminole County School Board in
securing this vital link for the Cross Seminole Trail. It will advance
public safety and enhance the enjoyment of the trail. Indeed, we are
Seminole County: The Natural Choice.”
Meandering north through Oviedo and Winter Springs, the Cross
Seminole Trail skirts Central Winds Park before breaching the cypress forests
of Spring Hammock Preserve. With approximately 31 total miles of paved
pathways, it traverses a variety of settings, creating a peaceful and
picturesque experience in an urban setting. Managed by Seminole County, the
Cross Seminole Trail offers abundant opportunities to the public, including
hiking, cycling and equestrian activities.
Mark
Brandenburg, Vice Chair, Seminole County Parks and Preservation
Advisory Committee (PPAC), said, “When I first joined the PPAC 10 years ago,
completing the 'missing link' had already been discussed for years prior. The
work necessary between private landowners, the city of Winter Springs, Seminole
County, and the state for land swaps, exchange agreements, and maintenance
agreements was more complicated than anyone could have imagined. I am ecstatic
that all the pieces have finally come together to allow this last component of
the Cross Seminole Trail to be completed!”
| 
