Florida's Historic A1A Officially Named After Beloved Music Legend

A year after his death, the Florida highway that changed Jimmy Buffett’s life now bears his name. 

The beloved singer-songwriter was honored during a dedication ceremony on Friday, August 30 in Key West. Crowds gathered to watch the unveiling of new signs officially naming historic A1A the Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway. 

Buffett, who died on September 1, 2023, named his fifth studio album A1A. Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law a bill designating State Road A1A the Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway in June.

"When Jimmy was 25, his life forever changed as he drove down the A1A for the first time and found a home in Key West," Lucy Buffett, Jimmy Buffett's sister, said in a news release. "He would be humbled, yet sheepishly thrilled, in his 'school-boy heart' way, that the Florida Legislature unanimously honored his legacy designating A1A the Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway. Our family is very touched and deeply grateful by this incredible tribute."

Constructed in 1927, A1A runs the entire length of Florida's east coast, from Fernandina Beach to Key West. According to The Palm Beach Post, the renaming applies to all portions of A1A in Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, Brevard, Volusia, Flagler, St. Johns, Duval, and Nassau counties.

"Renaming State Road A1A to honor Jimmy Buffett celebrates not only his iconic music but also his profound impact on our environment and culture," state Senator Lauren Book said in the news release. "As the road that runs alongside the coast he so loved, this tribute reflects his legacy of joy, adventure, and dedication to preserving Florida’s natural beauty. Jimmy named his fifth studio album after A1A—now, 50 years later, we’re helping return the favor."