Okaloosa County: Highway 98 connector, Santa Rosa Boulevard improvements, new ambulances

Big moves in Okaloosa County this week: commissioners voted to partner with Santa Rosa County on a regional road study that could create a new east-west corridor off Highway 98 โ plus approved a $1 million grant to upgrade Santa Rosa Boulevard on Okaloosa Island.
Rep. Nathan Boyles files first bill aiming at expanding county authority over solar farms

From solar farms to storm prep, a new proposal from Rep. Nathan Boyles (R-Baker) would give counties more power over renewable-energy projects and hold utilities to stricter cost-benefit standard
Fort Walton Beach Police Respond to Reported Shots at White Wilson Medical Center

Fort Walton Beach police responded to White Wilson Medical Center after an 87-year-old man suffered a self-inflicted gunshot. He was transported to the hospital, and authorities say there is no ongoing threat.
Nighttime Roadwork Alert! East Redstone Avenue Closures Start Oct. 22 in Crestview

Crestview drivers should plan for intermittent nighttime closures along East Redstone Avenue from October 22 through November 5 as city crews complete drainage improvements tied to the intersection realignment project near State Road 85.
Fort Walton Beach Council delays $7M rec complex, approves new PAWS contract, advances charter changes

Fort Walton Beach officials approved a new PAWS contract, postponed a recreation complex expansion, and advanced two charter amendments on election timing and mayoral pay.
‘No Kings’ rally draws large crowd in Fort Walton Beach

Hundreds gathered at The Landing this weekend for Fort Walton Beachโs second โNo Kingsโ rally โ part of a nationwide day of demonstrations. Attendees say the growing turnout shows more locals are ready to take part in civic action and community change.
Air Force Enlisted Village Breaks Ground on Village 7
The Air Force Enlisted Village in Shalimar has broken ground on its seventh residential community, expanding housing and support for retired enlisted Airmen and their spouses.
Three Crestview Public Works Leaders Earn National Management Certification

Three Crestview Public Works Leaders Earn National Management Certification Staff Reports October 16, 2025 4:13 pm Crestview In Brief: ๐ Three Crestview Public Works employees earned national management certification from the APWA. ๐ทโโ๏ธ The honorees โ Kyle Lusk, Nick McLeod, and Brandon Bolton โ have a combined 59 years of service to the city. ๐ […]
Fort Walton Beach Announces Opening of New Museum Store at Indian Temple Mound Museum

The Indian Temple Mound Museum in Fort Walton Beach will open a new museum store on November 1 as part of its ongoing expansion and renovation, offering visitors unique items and artwork while increasing exhibit space.
Generations United Church Opens Nicevilleโs First Cold Night Shelter to Protect Families and Seniors During Winter Weather

Generations United Church in Niceville is opening the cityโs first Cold Night Emergency Shelter to protect families and elderly residents during freezing weather. The shelter, located at 108 Highway 85 N, will open on nights below 41ยฐF and provide meals, beds, and essential support to those in need.