Florida’s transportation includes the state highway system with 40,829 lane miles and 6377 bridges, and 750 aviation facilities, of which 132 are public, 19 of those offering a scheduled service. There are 14 seaports, extensive railways and four major interstates. More than 60% of the population owns a mobile phone.
Homes are affordable. The “Sunshine State”, home to many retirees, provides a wide host of medical and hospital facilities. Florida’s business leaders consider its remarkable quality of life to be one of the state’s biggest assets. Year-round sunshine alone attracts newcomers every year. The average annual high temperature is 81 degrees, while the average annual low temperature remains a comfortable 60 degrees.
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There is no state personal income tax, excellent public schools and a low cost of living. With more than 1000 golf courses, a multitude of white sand beaches, unique shopping experiences, and thousands of lakes, state parks and recreation areas, Florida has recreation for everyone. Add to that a myriad of cultural amenities, world-class theme parks and sporting events, and you have a clear recipe for a well-rounded and rewarding lifestyle.
CITY OF THE FUTURE: JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA
All eyes were on Jacksonville in January to view this year’s Super Bowl XXXIX. Years ago, it would have only been a dream to host this major football event in Florida’s northern city. But Jacksonville is booming. Companies from around the world are locating there. Key is not only access to a dynamic market, but also excellent transportation networks. In addition to the three interstate highways serving the area, there are three Class I railroads that intersect at Jacksonville’s natural deepwater port (dubbed “Jaxport”). These and the international airport give Jacksonville one of the best intermodal transportation systems in the US. Its emergence as one of the leading intermodal centres on the eastern seaboard is the result of its strategic position within hours of the eastern US, Caribbean basin and Central America, and one of the best locations for reaching the east coast of South America. Jacksonville is rapidly becoming a significant international trade centre. City representatives participate in trade missions and lead trade and country briefings for companies in the region to develop importing and exporting endeavours.
Not only does Jacksonville offer a wide assortment of affordable housing, but it is also located far enough north and inward that it is off the route of “hurricane alley”. The population is educated with 22.9% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The community offers universities and branch campuses as well as community colleges. Among them are the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University and Flagler College. Residents have access to excellent healthcare facilities, including the Mayo Clinic Jacksonville and University of Florida’s teaching hospital, Shands Jacksonville.
As a gateway to Florida on the eastern US coast, many consider Jacksonville to be where Florida begins in terms of business and leisure.
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