Last Updated on January 10, 2025 by JJ
Florida, the Sunshine State, is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, sprawling theme parks, and the occasional headline-grabbing antics of the infamous “Florida Man.” But buried within the annals of the state’s history lies a lesser-known tale—a story of grand ambition, environmental reckoning, and a dream that was never fully realized: the unbuilt mega-airport in the heart of the Everglades.
The Birth of an Ambitious Idea
The late 1960s was a transformative era for aviation. Commercial air travel was expanding rapidly, and Florida was emerging as one of the nation’s top tourist destinations. With its warm climate, sandy shores, and attractions like Disney World (which was under construction at the time), the state was on the cusp of a tourism boom. To support this growth, officials envisioned a massive international airport that would put Florida at the center of global air travel.
The proposed airport, officially named the Everglades Jetport, was designed to be a behemoth—larger than Manhattan. Situated near Big Cypress Swamp, just 40 miles west of Miami, the jetport would boast six runways, each 10,500 feet long, capable of accommodating supersonic jets. It was planned as a hub that could rival any major airport in the world, promising thousands of jobs and a significant boost to the state’s economy.
A Site of Controversy: Building in the Everglades
While the promise of economic growth and modern infrastructure was enticing, the chosen location was problematic. The proposed site lay deep within the Everglades, one of the most ecologically significant wetlands on the planet. Spanning over 1.5 million acres, the Everglades is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including the endangered Florida panther, American crocodile, and countless bird species.
Environmentalists were quick to sound the alarm. The construction of a mega-airport in such a sensitive ecosystem would bring devastating consequences. Wetlands would be drained, habitats destroyed, and the delicate balance of the Everglades would be disrupted. Beyond the construction phase, the ongoing operations of the airport—noise, pollution, and increased human activity—would pose an existential threat to the region’s biodiversity.
Opposition Grows: The Environmental Movement Takes Flight
As plans for the jetport progressed, opposition gained momentum. Environmental groups, local residents, scientists, and politicians joined forces to fight against the project. Prominent conservationists like Marjory Stoneman Douglas, author of The Everglades: River of Grass, were vocal in their opposition. Douglas and her allies argued that the short-term economic gains of the airport paled in comparison to the long-term environmental costs.
In a landmark moment for the environmental movement, their voices began to resonate beyond Florida. National attention turned toward the Everglades, highlighting its ecological importance and the potential destruction that the jetport could bring.
Construction Begins: A Vision Half-Realized
Despite the growing resistance, initial construction on the Everglades Jetport began in the late 1960s. A single runway, along with portions of taxiways and service roads, was built as part of the project’s first phase. The completed runway stretched over two miles and hinted at the massive scale the airport would have had if fully realized.
However, even as construction crews worked to lay down concrete, the tide of public opinion was shifting. Reports commissioned by environmental groups revealed the irreparable damage the airport could inflict on the Everglades. Scientific studies showed how the airport’s operations would alter water flows, disrupt wildlife migration patterns, and introduce pollutants into the ecosystem.
The Collapse of the Mega-Airport Dream
By the early 1970s, the environmental movement had reached a critical mass. In 1970, the U.S. Department of the Interior issued a report condemning the project, stating that it posed a grave threat to the Everglades and its surrounding areas. In the face of mounting evidence and pressure, the state of Florida and the federal government officially halted construction.
The Everglades Jetport was never completed. The partially built runway and surrounding land were handed over to the state and later incorporated into Big Cypress National Preserve in 1974. This marked a significant victory for conservationists and set a precedent for balancing development with environmental stewardship.
A Cautionary Tale
The story of the unbuilt Everglades airport is a powerful reminder of the delicate balance between human ambition and environmental preservation. While the prospect of economic growth and modern infrastructure is tempting, the costs to nature can be irreversible. The decision to halt the project demonstrated that some places are simply too precious to sacrifice.
Today, the remnants of the Everglades Jetport stand as a stark reminder of this lesson. Visitors to Big Cypress National Preserve can still see the abandoned runway, now reclaimed by nature. It’s a haunting yet fascinating sight—a symbol of what could have been and a testament to the power of grassroots activism.
What If? A Humorous Take on the Jetport That Never Was
Imagine for a moment if the Everglades Jetport had been completed. Picture jumbo jets landing in the middle of a swamp, greeted by an entourage of curious alligators and bewildered egrets. Travelers might have faced delays due to a wandering Florida panther taking a leisurely stroll across the runway. Instead of airport lounges serving overpriced cocktails, perhaps there would have been swamp tours and airboat rides as layover activities.
The idea of an international airport in the heart of the Everglades is both amusing and absurd. The thought of flight attendants instructing passengers to watch out for crocodiles during their walk to the terminal is enough to elicit a chuckle. But humor aside, the potential environmental consequences would have been no laughing matter.
Modern-Day Conservation Efforts
The fight to protect the Everglades didn’t end with the cancellation of the jetport. Today, the Everglades faces ongoing threats from climate change, pollution, and invasive species. Organizations like the Everglades Foundation and the National Parks Conservation Association continue to advocate for its preservation, working tirelessly to restore and protect this unique ecosystem.
The Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP), initiated in 2000, is one of the largest environmental restoration projects in the world. It aims to restore the natural flow of water through the Everglades, ensuring the survival of its diverse flora and fauna.
Visitors to the Everglades can experience its beauty firsthand through guided tours, kayaking adventures, and wildlife spotting. Popular attractions like the Shark Valley Visitor Center, Everglades Alligator Farm, and Anhinga Trail offer opportunities to explore and appreciate the region’s natural wonders.
Where to Stay: Lodging Near the Everglades
For those looking to immerse themselves in the Everglades’ beauty, there are several lodging options nearby:
- Big Cypress Lodge (website): Located within the Big Cypress National Preserve, this rustic lodge offers a cozy and convenient base for exploring the area.
- Ivey House Everglades Adventures Hotel (website): Situated in Everglades City, this eco-lodge provides comfortable accommodations and guided tours.
- Miccosukee Resort & Gaming (website): For a unique experience, stay at this resort owned by the Miccosukee Tribe, featuring a casino and cultural exhibits.
Dining with a Local Flair
No trip to the Everglades is complete without sampling the local cuisine. From fresh seafood to traditional Southern dishes, the region offers a variety of mouthwatering options:
- Joanie’s Blue Crab Cafe (website): A beloved spot in Ochopee, known for its fresh blue crab and alligator dishes.
- Camellia Street Grill (website): Located in Everglades City, this waterfront restaurant serves up delicious seafood in a laid-back setting.
- The Oyster House Restaurant (website): Famous for its oysters, stone crab, and other seafood specialties.
Lessons Learned: The Legacy of the Everglades Jetport
The unbuilt Everglades airport stands as a symbol of the need for thoughtful, sustainable development. It’s a reminder that progress doesn’t have to come at the expense of the natural world. The decision to halt the project not only saved a vital ecosystem but also laid the groundwork for future environmental victories.
As Florida continues to grow and evolve, the story of the Everglades Jetport serves as a guiding light. It encourages us to approach development with caution, respect for the environment, and a commitment to preserving the planet for future generations.
Conclusion: A Vision Unfulfilled, a Legacy Preserved
The tale of the Everglades Jetport is one of ambition, controversy, and ultimately, redemption. It’s a story that highlights the tension between human progress and environmental preservation, offering valuable lessons for the future.
So, the next time you visit the Everglades, take a moment to reflect on the history that shaped this remarkable landscape. Whether you’re marveling at the beauty of a sunset over the sawgrass or spotting a rare bird in flight, remember the unbuilt airport that could have forever changed this precious ecosystem. And be grateful for the efforts of those who fought to keep the Everglades wild, free, and teeming with life.
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