UPDATE: The response from our community has been overwhelming and very powerful. Thank you everyone for signing and sharing this petition, started by a couple of Big Pine moms. Let’s keep it going and get to our next goal of 1,000 signatures! We are so close!
Also, please attend the CFK Board of Trustees meeting to let them know how we feel about the proposed CDL school. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, 1/27/26 at 2pm, Key West Campus Boardroom A, 5901 College Rd, Key West, FL. 
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The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) has decided on constructing a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) driver school on Big Pine Key at the site of the old prison located on Key Deer Blvd. While the intention may seem beneficial in providing job opportunities and education, this location poses significant concerns for the community and the surrounding environment.

Big Pine Key is home to a unique ecosystem, including the endangered Key Deer and other protected wildlife. Development of a functional CDL training center in this area threatens to disrupt their habitats, potentially leading to disastrous consequences for local biodiversity. 

Moreover, Big Pine Key is already facing infrastructure challenges. Crumbling roads  and intersections are not equipped to handle the additional traffic that a CDL school would bring. The increase in semi truck traffic poses risks not only to the structural integrity of local roads but also to residents’ safety and the preservation of the serene, quiet community environment cherished by the locals and those who visit. 

In addition, using the old prison site for this purpose overlooks potential opportunities for community development that are more aligned with the needs and character of Big Pine Key. The site could serve as an Aquatic Center (including multifunction pool and/or splash pad), Community center, park, or conservation education hub, benefitting residents and preserving the natural beauty of the area. An Aquatic center would also provide meaningful job opportunities for the young people of the Lower Keys. 

We urge the College of the Florida Keys and local authorities to reconsider this proposal and collaborate with the community to explore alternative ideas for this site more suitable for the needs of our community. Or not develop this project at all. A CDL school is better suited for a larger, less environmentally sensitive area in the state. We urge the CFK to find an option that could fulfill the educational demand without compromising the ecological and community values of Big Pine Key.

Sign this petition to voice your opposition to the proposed CDL driver school on Big Pine Key and help safeguard the future of our wildlife and local community.