Work on the Cross Florida Barge Canal began in the 1930s as a WPA project, but funds ran out after three years of work. President Johnson authorized new federal funding in 1964. Environmental and anti-pork-barrel voices became loud enough that President Nixon stopped construction in 1971. "At that point, the project was only 28% complete, with $75 million already invested." [FloridaMuseum]
"The project was not officially killed by Congress until 1990. After that, the lands were turned over to the State of Florida for preservation." [FloridaHistoryBlog]
The abandoned corridor became the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, named after the activist who helped stop the project.
 |
| AmericanCanalSociety via Dennis DeBruler The locks were 600' x 84', and 3 of the planned 5 locks were completed. |
 |
| FloridaMuseum "The Greenway stretches more than 70,000 acres across 110 miles of central Florida. It contains over 300 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Beyond recreation, the Greenway is also a crucial wildlife corridor, serving as a refuge for animals such as black bears. "A landmark feature of the Greenway is the Cross Florida Greenway Overpass, the state’s first “land bridge.” Located along Interstate 75, the bridge allows both hikers on the Florida Trail and wildlife to cross safely, symbolizing the transformation of a failed industrial project into a celebrated conservation and recreation space." |
 |
| All Glory to God, Feb 2024 |
There doesn't seem to be much room for wild animals.
 |
| Street View, Feb 2024 |
