FDOT removing ‘Gulf of Mexico’ road signs on SR 789 in Longboat Key

LONGBOAT KEY, Fla. — Officials in Longboat Key said Tuesday that “Gulf of Mexico” road signs are being removed from State Road 789.

The city cited House Bill 549 and said the Florida Department of Transportation is in the process of removing signs within the SR 789 right-of-way that reference the Gulf of Mexico.

The bill “requires state agencies to update geographic materials to reflect new federal designation of ‘Gulf of Mexico’ as ‘Gulf of America.’”

In a news release, the city said this action does not formally change the name of the roadway. Streets using “Gulf of Mexico Drive” will be unaffected at this time.

The Longboat Key Town Commission will discuss the possible renaming of SR 789 at its workshop meeting on Oct. 20.

The city released a question-and-answer page about addresses, post office, emergency services and the possible cost.

You can view the Q&A here.