Longboat Key Commission Votes Unanimously to Keep Gulf of Mexico Drive Name

LONGBOAT KEY – The Town of Longboat Key Commission has voted unanimously to retain the name Gulf of Mexico Drive, ending weeks of public debate over whether the roadway should be renamed following a recent federal decision to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America.

During its October 20 workshop, all seven commissioners agreed that the name should remain unchanged, citing overwhelming public opposition to the proposal and the administrative challenges that would accompany a name change.

The discussion drew significant attention from residents in recent weeks, with many expressing concern about the cost, confusion, and potential disruption such a change would create. Comments posted on the town’s social media pages reflected strong opposition, with residents emphasizing the unnecessary expense and burden that would fall on homeowners and local businesses still recovering from recent hurricane impacts.

Commissioners echoed those concerns during Monday’s meeting, noting that the name Gulf of Mexico Drive has historical and cultural significance for the island community. They also emphasized that altering the name could create logistical challenges for mapping systems, postal services, and emergency response agencies.

With the unanimous vote, Gulf of Mexico Drive will continue to bear its familiar name — a decision many residents say preserves both the town’s identity and its sense of continuity.