Florida Power & Light teams up to make parks accessible for all

In the United States, on December 10, 2024, Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), in collaboration with the Florida State Parks Foundation, announced an expansion of accessibility efforts in state parks. This initiative includes a grant of $45,000 from FPL's charitable arm, the NextEra Energy Foundation, specifically to fund the purchase of two accessible electric trams, one for Big Lagoon State Park in Pensacola and the other for Oleta River State Park in North Miami Beach. This move aims to enhance access for individuals with disabilities and improve the overall visitor experience across these natural areas. The new electric trams, known as the MotoEV Electro Neighborhood Buddy, have the capacity to carry six passengers and accommodate one wheelchair, motorized scooter, or other mobility devices. Each tram is equipped with a four-kilowatt AC motor, enabling them to travel up to 50 miles on a single charge. This eco-friendly initiative has been promoted as a significant stride towards reducing emissions and minimizing engine noise in Florida State Parks. Each tram operates at an average cost of about one cent per mile, emphasizing the sustainability aspect of FPL's funding. Prior to this latest funding, FPL had demonstrated its commitment to accessibility and environmental sustainability through similar initiatives. Over the years, grants totaling nearly $135,000 have supported the acquisition of accessible electric trams at multiple other state parks, including Henderson Beach State Park in Destin, Oscar Scherer State Park in Osprey, John D. MacArthur Beach State Park in North Palm Beach, and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale. This consistent funding has resulted in six trams now operational across Florida's parks. Leaders from both organizations expressed optimism about the continued partnership and its positive impacts on accessibility in public lands. Julia Gill Woodward, CEO of the Florida State Parks Foundation, highlighted that past initiatives have created a significant positive impact on the lives of park visitors, thereby underscoring the importance of these environmental and accessibility efforts. The dedication exhibited by FPL not only expands recreational options for visitors but also promotes a greater awareness of the need for accessible solutions in natural spaces throughout Florida.