Local Business
Friday, May 1, 2026 · Okeechobee County
WAFC Local News – April 09, 2026
A new development in Collier County, fire department improvements in Clewiston, and a new Florida Farm Bill are among the local news items.
Florida Tourism Explodes 15% in Q1, Fueled by Global Surge
Florida shattered records with a 15% visitor boom in the first quarter of 2026, welcoming millions more from abroad and boosting the state's economy. Governor Ron DeSantis hailed the surge as proof of the Sunshine State's unbeatable appeal. From Miami beaches to Orlando theme parks, international travelers are pouring in like never before.
Friday, May 1, 2026
South Florida's Older Condos Surge in Sales Amid Affordability Crunch
In a twist defying luxury trends, South Florida's aging condos are flying off the market faster than new builds, drawing remote workers priced out of gleaming towers. Owners rush to sell ahead of looming financial cliffs from post-Surfside laws, creating bargains in Miami-Dade and beyond. But statewide condo prices plummet, signaling a buyer's paradise with risks.
Friday, May 1, 2026
JAXPORT's Jax Forward Strategy Fuels Florida Job Boom
Jacksonville's port is surging ahead with record cargo volumes and multimillion-dollar expansions, creating tens of thousands of high-paying jobs across Florida. CEO Eric Green unveiled the 'Jax Forward' blueprint at the 2026 State of the Ports address, spotlighting a transformative year that bolsters the state's logistics powerhouse status. From deeper harbors to greener cranes, these moves promise billions in economic firepower for Northeast Florida.
Friday, May 1, 2026
Orlando breaks tourism record as Universal, Disney fuel Central Florida boom
Orlando welcomed more than 75 million visitors in 2024, shattering tourism records as Universal's $7 billion Epic Universe and Disney's $60 billion expansion reshape the destination. The competition between theme park giants is driving longer stays, higher spending, and record hotel bookings across Central Florida.
Friday, May 1, 2026