4/14/26 @ 7:00 p.m.

​Learn about the world of sea turtles and discover cool facts about these amazing creatures right in Nassau County!

Join Nassau County’s Conservation Land Management Team for an engaging and educational workshop focused on Florida’s nesting sea turtles and how we can responsibly enjoy and protect their habitat. We’ll cover lighting requirements that help keep nesting females and hatchlings oriented toward the ocean, explore the major turtle species that nest locally, such as loggerheads, green turtles, and leatherbacks, and learn how to identify turtle tracks left behind on the sand.

Participants will also practice Leave No Trace principles specific to beaches, including minimizing disturbance, avoiding obstacles, and respecting marked nests, so everyone leaves with a deeper understanding of how small actions can make a big difference for sea turtle conservation.

Learning About Sea Turtles in Nassau County
Wednesday, April 29, 2026 from 11:00 a.m.  - 12:00 p.m.
Rebecca L. Jordi Cooperative Extension Office, 85831 Miner Road, Yulee, FL 32097

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

4/14/26 @ 8:30 a.m.

​We want to keep you informed about an important update at the Goffinsville Park boat ramp.

As part of ongoing efforts to improve the ramp and address challenges boaters have experienced with strong river currents, an underwater inspection recently uncovered significant erosion at the end of the ramp. This type of damage isn’t visible from the surface, and while the ramp has continued to function, its long-term stability is now a concern.

Because safety is our top priority, we’ve made the difficult decision to temporarily close the boat ramp beginning tomorrow, April 15, 2026, until repairs can be completed. While we know this is an inconvenience, this step is necessary to ensure the safety of everyone using the facility. The repair process, including design, permitting, and construction, is expected to take approximately nine to twelve months. In the meantime, boaters can continue to access the water at the Holly Point Boat Ramp, located just south of Goffinsville.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to make these important improvements and provide a safer experience for all users. If you have any questions, please contact Nassau County Facilities Maintenance at (904) 530-6120.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

4/13/26 @ 5:00 p.m.

Significant progress continues on Phase 2 operations. Our teams made solid advancements last week while keeping safety and traffic flow top priorities.

Key Activities Completed the Week of April 6th:

• TB Landmark continued welding and pressure testing of the 6" steel gas main
• The gas main has been shifted approximately 80 feet east with a 90-degree tie-in 115 feet south of the roundabout center
• The City of Fernandina Beach successfully installed their water main relocation
• The existing 90-degree bend in the water main has been shifted approximately 150 feet south of the roundabout center.

These vital utility relocations ensure the entire intersection will remain accessible to north and southbound traffic should any future utility maintenance or upgrades be required.

Looking Ahead – Week of April 13th:

• City of Fernandina Beach will connect the relocated water main to the existing line on Tuesday, April 14th  — some customers may experience a short water outage (they have already been notified)
• TB Landmark will continue gas main reconnection activities, with completion scheduled for Saturday, April 18th
• MAER Construction will advance storm pipe and drainage structure installations
• Florida Public Utilities (FPU) will begin boring their electric distribution lines and marking vault locations.

Positive Traffic Update:
Thanks to continued coordination with the City of Fernandina Beach on maintenance of traffic, we’ve seen a substantial improvement,  over a 50% on average reduction in peak afternoon northbound travel times between the Amelia City roundabout and Simmons Road. This improvement is largely due to more drivers following the signed Sadler Road and Simmons Road detours. Your patience and cooperation are making a real difference in keeping traffic moving. Thank you for being considerate of fellow motorists and residents during these important safety upgrades.

We’ll continue sharing updates as we move closer to reopening Buccaneer Trail. Safe travels, neighbors!

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

4/13/26 @ 3:15 p.m.

​The Nassau County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) proudly announces that the State of Florida has received two prestigious national awards recognizing its support of the American Beach Water and Sewer Conversion Project, an initiative led and driven by Nassau County to improve infrastructure and protect this historic community.

The awards were presented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as part of its 2026 recognition of 48 outstanding water infrastructure projects across the country. Funded in part through State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs, these projects highlight the vital role of modern water infrastructure in protecting public health and supporting economic prosperity.

Through its partnership with Nassau County, the State of Florida earned the AQUARIUS Award for Excellence in Innovative Financing and the PISCES Award for Community Engagement for its support of the American Beach Water and Sewer Conversion Project.

EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Jessica Kramer emphasized that SRF investments are helping communities modernize aging systems, strengthen resilience, and ensure access to safe, reliable water, demonstrating the impact of robust federal and state collaboration.

Locally, that collaboration resulted in the successful delivery of a centralized water and wastewater system for the American Beach community. The project was made possible through a $1.32 million Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) loan, federal grants, and additional state and local funding, allowing for the replacement of failing wells and septic systems while providing reliable, affordable service to residents. Importantly, the new infrastructure also enhances fire protection capabilities by supporting fire suppression through improved water flow and hydrant access, significantly strengthening public safety for the community.

The project also gained national recognition for its robust community engagement efforts. Early in the process, 79 residents submitted letters of commitment supporting the transition to a centralized sewer system, followed by a community straw ballot demonstrating support for funding mechanisms. The creation of the American Beach Water & Sewer District Advisory Board, along with years of public meetings, ensured residents remained actively involved throughout the project.

District Two County Commissioner A.M. “Hupp” Huppmann accepted the awards with the State of Florida at the Council of Infrastructure Financing Authorities (CIFA) Summit on Water Infrastructure in Washington, D.C., on April 8, 2026, highlighting the strong partnership between federal, state, and local entities.

BOCC Chair Alyson McCullough stated, “We are incredibly proud of the State of Florida’s recognition through these prestigious awards. The American Beach Water and Sewer Project represents the kind of innovative, community-focused work that sets a standard for other communities to follow. Through collaboration, careful planning, and creative financing, we were able to deliver modern infrastructure at no cost to residents, while ensuring their voices guided every step of the project. This recognition reflects the strength of our partnerships and the dedication of everyone involved.”

The project included the installation of more than 13,000 linear feet of gravity sewer and 2,300 linear feet of force main, for 350 parcels. In total, approximately $12 million was assembled from multiple funding sources, including State Revolving Fund programs, legislative appropriations, grants, and local contributions.

The County extends its sincere gratitude to the Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA), the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the St. Johns River Water Management District, and the Advisory Board members, whose leadership and support were instrumental in making this project a reality.
​
Special recognition is also extended to Senior Management Analyst Amy Bell, whose dedicated project management and ongoing communication with residents played a critical role in the project’s success.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

4/11/26 @ 9:00 a.m. - County Road 121 Traffic Update

Work performed the week of April 6, 2026

Drainage:

• No drainage operation this week.

​Temporary Signals:

• Temporary signals were installed from Horseshoe Circle to .04 miles North of Batey LN (Sta. 221+25 to Sta. 238+75

​Barrier Wall:

• Temporary barrier was installed from Horseshoe Circle to .04 miles North of Batey LN (Sta. 221+25 to Sta. 238+75)

Subgrade Prep:

• Began/finished mixing subgrade from Horseshoe Circle to .04 miles North of Batey LN (Sta. 222+00 to Sta. 238+69)
• Began blading and grading subgrade from Horseshoe Circle to .04 miles North of Batey LN (Sta. 222+00 to Sta. 238+69)

​
Milling/Paving:

• Milled existing asphalt 3” from Horseshoe Circle to .04 miles North of Batey LN (Sta. 222+00 to Sta. 238+69)
• No paving operations were performed.

Activities scheduled the week of April 13, 2026 

• Continue working subgrade
• Asphalt base construction
• ​Maintenance of Traffic.

Traffic Information for the week of April 13, 2026: 

• Daily single-lane closures are not currently planned for next week. If a lane closure were to be installed it will occur as needed between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM. 
• CR 121 from Horseshoe Circle to .04 miles North of Batey LN (Sta. 238+69) is operation under single lane, two-way alternating traffic with temporary signals.

Monday 04/13/26:

• Continue working from Horseshoe Circle to .04 miles North of Batey LN (Sta. 222+00 to Sta. 238+69)

Tuesday 04/14/26:

• Continue working from Horseshoe Circle to .04 miles North of Batey LN (Sta. 222+00 to Sta. 238+69)

Wednesday 04/15/26:

• Continue working from Horseshoe Circle to .04 miles North of Batey LN (Sta. 222+00 to Sta. 238+69)

Thursday 04/16/26:

• Continue working from Horseshoe Circle to .04 miles North of Batey LN (Sta. 222+00 to Sta. 238+69)

Friday 04/16/26:

• Continue working from Horseshoe Circle to .04 miles North of Batey LN (Sta. 222+00 to Sta. 238+69)

Saturday:

• No work scheduled.

Sunday:

• No work scheduled.

​
NOTE: ALL LANE CLOSURES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO WEATHER OR OTHER CONDITIONS

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

4/12/26 @ 9:00 p.m.  - Below are pictures from the week of April 3 - April 10, 2026. 

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer​ 

4/10/26 @ 3:00 p.m. - On Friday, April 10, 2026, the Board of County Commissioners hosted a Dedication Ceremony and Ribbon Cutting to celebrate the grand opening of Fire Rescue Station 90 in Hilliard.

The event began with the presentation of colors by the Nassau County Fire Rescue Honor Guard, followed by an invocation from Fire Rescue Chaplain Greg Jones. Fire Chief Brady Rigdon delivered opening remarks, highlighting the importance of the new station in enhancing emergency response capabilities and reinforcing the County’s commitment to public safety.

Chair Alyson McCullough also shared remarks, emphasizing the Board’s continued investment in critical infrastructure and the well-being of residents. She stated, “This is a proud day for Nassau County. It's an honor to stand here as we open Fire Rescue Station 90, a symbol of what it means to invest in the safety, strength, and future of our community. Station 90 is more than a building. It represents reduced response times, expanded coverage, and a continued commitment to the residents of Hilliard and western Nassau.”

Commissioner McCullough thanked the brave men and women who serve at Station 90, stating, “Thank you so much. You are the reason all of this matters.” She continued, “And to the residents of Nassau County, this is your investment at work. Today, we don’t just open a fire station. We strengthen a promise that no matter how much we grow, we will never compromise on the safety of the people who call Nassau County home.”

Lastly, she recognized Senator Clay Yarborough and State Representative Dean Black who were both in attendance, thanking them for their continued partnership and for all they do to support Nassau County.
​
Additional comments were provided by Captain Kelly Mulder, who expressed appreciation to the Board of County Commissioners for their leadership and dedication to strengthening public safety through projects like Station 90. 
The County extends its sincere thanks to Fire Chief Rigdon and the entire Fire Rescue team, ACON Construction, and Public Works Director Doug Podiak for their hard work and collaboration in bringing this important project to fruition. The event concluded with a brief station tour, offering attendees an inside look at the new facility and its state-of-the-art features designed to serve the Hilliard community.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

4/10/26 @ 8:30 a.m.

​Happening tomorrow! Saturday, April 11, 2025 from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

The Bi-Annual Household Hazardous Waste Recycling Event, hosted by Keep Nassau Beautiful, Inc. and Nassau County Solid Waste.

This is your chance to safely dispose of items that are too hazardous for the landfill, including:

• Electronics
• Aerosols
• Herbicides & pesticides
• Fluorescent lightbulbs
• Paint & paint thinners
• Oil filters

…and more!

Nassau County Road Department
86200 Gene Lasserre Blvd., Yulee

Please enter from Courtney Isles Way (west from Chester Road).

Cost: FREE for Nassau County residents (proof of residency required).

No commercial loads accepted. Small businesses may call ahead for pricing at 352-334-0440.

Bonus: Help support our community by bringing a non-perishable food item for donation to the Barnabas Food Pantry.
​
Don’t miss this opportunity to clean out your garage safely and responsibly.
https://www.facebook.com/share/1CNYxMfM96/The

4/9/26 @ 9:00 a.m.

Nassau County invites the community to join us tomorrow, Friday, April 10 at 10:00 a.m., for the dedication and grand opening of Fire Rescue Station 90, located at 3195 County Road 2 in Hilliard.

This new, modern facility replaces an outdated station and strengthens emergency response capabilities for residents in western Nassau County, supporting faster service, improved safety, and enhanced resources for our firefighters.

The ceremony will include remarks from County leadership, a ribbon cutting, and a brief tour of the station.
We hope you’ll join us as we celebrate this important investment in public safety!

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

4/8/26 @ 6:00 a.m.

​On March 19, our Parks & Recreation staff showcased their skills at the Florida Recreation and Park Association (FRPA) North Florida Turf Rodeo, held at the Clay County Fairgrounds. This exciting event brings together Parks & Recreation professionals from across the region to compete in hands-on challenges that simulate real-world maintenance tasks, from precision mowing to equipment handling and safety exercises.

A big congratulations to Heinrich Deetlefs, who earned 2nd place in the Zero Turn Mower Barrel Race, and to James “Jimmy” Canfield, who finished 3rd in the Zero Turn Slalom Relay! Their performances demonstrate not only skill and teamwork, but also the professionalism and dedication of our Parks & Recreation team.

Participation in the Turf Rodeo goes beyond competition. It provides valuable professional development, helps staff refine equipment and turf management techniques, reinforces safety practices, and fosters networking and idea-sharing with peers across Florida. These experiences translate directly into better-maintained, safer, and more enjoyable parks for the residents of Nassau County.

We’re proud to see our team representing the County with excellence, bringing home both awards and insights that will benefit our community for years to come.

-Sabrina Robertson 
​ Communications Officer

Nassau County is ready to welcome summer in a big way and invites residents and visitors alike to celebrate at the annual Opening of the Beaches on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Main Beach Park in Fernandina.
 
This FREE, family-friendly tradition transforms the shoreline into a vibrant hub of activity, offering a full day of live music, interactive experiences, and coastal adventure. Adding to the excitement, the Wild Amelia Nature Festival will take place alongside the event, bringing more opportunities to explore wildlife, conservation, and outdoor discovery.  From hands-on nature exhibits to engaging environmental education, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with the natural beauty that makes Nassau County’s beaches so special.
 
Guests can also stop by the County’s engagement tent to learn about key initiatives shaping Nassau County’s future, including the Comprehensive Plan update and the adopted 2050 Vision Plan.
 
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of food and beverage vendors, shop local, and soak in a lively atmosphere filled with entertainment. The main stage will feature a lineup of talented local performers, including Brian Earnst; Laid Back; Andria Shinn and Loyal Souls; The Boogie Freaks; and the headlining band, The Honey Badgers!
 
“The Opening of the Beaches is one of Nassau County’s most anticipated events of the year,” said Chair Alyson McCullough. “It’s a chance to celebrate our incredible coastline, connect with our community, and kick off the summer season in a fun and meaningful way.”
 
Whether you're a lifelong resident or visiting for the weekend, this signature event offers something for everyone, sun, music, nature, and a true sense of community.
For more information, including event updates and the full entertainment schedule, visit: https://nassaufl.co/2026BeachesEvent

4/7/26 @ 9:00 a.m.

On March 25, 2026, Nassau County proudly hosted participants from the Northeast Florida Regional Council's Regional Leadership Academy, welcoming leaders from across Northeast Florida for a full-day tour highlighting the County’s history, partnerships, infrastructure, and vision for the future.

The day began in Fernandina Beach with a tour of the Historic Nassau County Courthouse, where Judge Fahlgren provided valuable insight into the judicial court system and its role in serving the community. Commissioners Huppmann and Martin were also present to show their support and engage with regional leaders.

Participants then enjoyed a walking tour of downtown Fernandina Beach led by a costumed interpreter portraying David Yulee, offering a unique and engaging look into the County’s early history. The group continued to the marina, where representatives from the Ocean Highway and Port Authority (OHPA) and RYAM shared perspectives on the region’s maritime and coastal economy.

At Fernandina Beach City Hall, City representatives, including City Manager Sarah Campbell and City Commissioner Genece Minshew, presented updates on downtown initiatives and long-term plans to enhance the waterfront and strengthen community development efforts. The tour concluded with a working lunch at the Residence Inn hosted by Justin Taylor (Residence Inn Director of Sales & Marketing and Port Authority Commissioner), where participants heard from Maurie Dugger of the Amelia Island Convention and Visitors Bureau about the significant role tourism plays in Nassau County’s economy.

The afternoon highlighted key County initiatives, including a presentation from Dr. Taylor Clem, Conservation Lands Manager, who shared updates on conservation priorities and land stewardship efforts. Amy Bell, Operations Manager, provided an overview of the American Beach Water and Sewer Project, accompanied by a video produced by Omari Matlock, Multimedia and Communications Manager, that showcased the engineering, public engagement, and collaboration behind the project.

This immersive experience was expertly coordinated by Nassau County staff to provide regional leaders with a comprehensive view of Nassau County’s growth, infrastructure investments, and commitment to preserving its heritage and natural resources. The program was hosted and led by Brandy Carvalho and Amy Bell, whose leadership ensured a meaningful and informative experience for all participants.

The day’s agenda reflected a thoughtful progression through key aspects of Nassau County’s operations and partnerships, from the courthouse and downtown district to regional infrastructure and community initiatives.

-Joshua Macbeth
 Senior Planner

4/6/26 @ 5:15 p.m. 

We know construction at the Amelia Island Parkway & Buccaneer Trail roundabout can be frustrating, especially during Phase 2.

We are actively working with our local law enforcement partners and the City of Fernandina Beach to improve travel times for the northbound afternoon commute from the south end of the island. Based on field observations and monitoring, southbound travel to the south end along Fletcher has seen limited delays and is working as intended.
​
This is a friendly reminder: Using the posted detour routes provides a real benefit for everyone. We’ve added more signage and message boards to help guide all drivers in the area.

When everyone follows the signed paths:

• The primary detour via Sadler Road keeps northbound traffic flowing smoothly. The roundabout at Sadler and Fletcher allows continuous movement.
• The Simmons Road / 14th Street alternate often provides quicker access for local residents in that area.

Right now, drivers attempting to turn left onto Bill Melton Road from northbound Fletcher are creating long backups. These add 20+ extra minutes during afternoon peaks (1–6 pm), with queues sometimes extending south past the AIP/Fletcher intersection all the way to,  and beyond,  the Harris Teeter area.

The more drivers who use the signed detours, the better it gets for everyone:

• A 30% increase in drivers using the primary Sadler Road detour can reduce travel time by up to 6 minutes from points south of the AIP/Fletcher intersection.
• A 50% increase can provide up to a 10-minute reduction in travel times.

That means:

•  Less time sitting in traffic
• Fewer delays getting home, to work, or to the beach
• Safer intersections for all motorists and pedestrians
• Faster progress on a safer, modern roundabout that will benefit our community for years to come.

Phase 2 Construction Progress Activities completed the week of March 30:

• AIP roadway surface milled for repaving and demolition of areas outside the future alignment
• TB Landmark completed pre-installation pipe welds for the Chesapeake Gas line relocation
• TB Landmark performed pressure testing
• TB Landmark began drilling for the new gas main along the east and south sides of the intersection

Activities scheduled for the week of April 6:

• City of Fernandina Beach begins relocation of their water main
• TB Landmark continues gas main relocation activities

Once all utilities are safely relocated and backfilled, MAER Construction will install the new pipe and drainage structures at the former utility conflict points and continue working toward reopening Buccaneer Trail.
​
Thank you for your patience and cooperation! Every driver who follows the signed detour helps keep traffic moving for the whole island. As we make additional improvements to the detour route and traffic flow, we’ll continue to share updates.

-Sabrina Robertson 
​ Communications Officer