Florida Governor's Mansion faces sweeping $20M renovation
Florida is preparing a sweeping renovation of the Governor's Mansion that could cost as much as $20 million, force the state's next first family to live somewhere else, and leave the future of the official residence uncertain as Gov.-elect Byron Donalds weighs where his family will live after he takes office. State procurement documents show plans for a top-to-bottom overhaul of the nearly 70-year-old mansion, including demolition, new mechanical systems, historic restoration work and security upgrades. The project would amount to the most significant renovation since the residence opened in 1957 and the largest reconstruction effort in the building's history. It also comes as the mansion, which once welcomed thousands of visitors for open houses and inaugural celebrations has become increasingly separated from the public. During Gov. Ron DeSantis' administration, security concerns have steadily reshaped not only the mansion grounds but the surrounding neighborhood. The changes included the demolition of the historic Gladstone boarding house , and the home of the mother of Iwo Jima hero Boots Thomas. The state has also pursued the purchase the former Cigars of Tally Lounge nearby on Monroe Street. And Entrance Park, home to a sculpture honoring Florida's children, is no longer freely accessible,
