Jackson County Commission Approves Pooser Road Land Swap and Temporary Closure

By Shelia Mader

At their July meeting, the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners addressed two motions concerning Pooser Road, both tied to the construction of a new city street, Charlie’s Way, and a commercial development project by Chipola Nurseries.

County Administrator Jim Dean and attorney Clay Milton explained that in January 2025, the board approved the concept of rerouting Pooser Road across property owned by Chipola Nurseries and closing the existing portion. The rerouting is necessary because the Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) will be installing a traffic signal at the intersection of Pooser Road and Kynesville Highway, and DOT does not allow multiple roads to converge at a single point.

Clay Milton, representing the county, said the new city road, Charlie’s Way, will begin at the current intersection of Pooser Road and Kynesville Highway and extend into the Chipola Nurseries property. The rerouted Pooser Road will intersect Charlie’s Way approximately 200 to 300 yards from the signalized intersection, reducing traffic congestion and supporting the upcoming commercial development (Circle K) at the interstate.

The board considered two formal motions:

Land Swap Resolution – This measure allows the county to deed a portion of the old Pooser Road right-of-way to Chipola Nurseries in exchange for the new road alignment on their property. Milton said all legal documents and surveys were submitted to County Attorney Jordan. A quitclaim deed will be used, transferring the property without warranty of title. The motion was made by Commissioner Donnie Branch, seconded by Commissioner Paul Donofro, and passed unanimously.

Temporary Closure of Pooser Road – Chipola Nurseries requested that the western portion of the existing Pooser Road be temporarily closed after the land transfer to prevent through traffic until construction of the rerouted road is completed. This section, between Mashburn Road and the Kynesville Highway, is not residential and is bordered only by county-owned land and Chipola Nurseries property. Branch also made the motion for the closure, seconded again by Donofro, and it passed unanimously.

Milton noted that the city of Marianna has already awarded the construction bid for Charlie’s Way and is expected to begin mobilization imminently. Construction of the new Pooser Road alignment will be handled by the county.

Commissioner Donofro, whose district includes the project area, voiced support for both motions, noting the minimal impact on traffic and no disruption to access for the Florida Forestry Department, which has alternate routes available.

Commission Chairman Jamey Westbrook authorized coordination with Milton for signing the necessary documents following the board’s votes.