The local desk · Okaloosa County

Everything happening on the Emerald Coast, in one place.

We read the county, the cities and the outlets that cover them, then brief it in our own words with a link to everyone who reported it. Updated every hour.

Latest story

Fort Walton Beach Hospital Seeks Food Donations Through November

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital is collecting non-perishable food items through Nov. 20 to support Sharing and Caring of Fort Walton Beach, a local organization assisting families in need. The hospital says one in eight families face food insecurity and hopes the community drive will help ensure local households have adequate nutrition heading into the holiday season.

1 source

Escambia County Breaks Ground on $22.5M Regional Traffic Center

Construction has begun on a joint facility in Pensacola designed to coordinate traffic operations across Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, with completion expected in early 2028. The center will use advanced technology to manage traffic signals, monitor road conditions, and give emergency vehicles priority at intersections to reduce response times.

1 source

Escambia County Roads Face Week of Construction Delays

Multiple highways across Escambia County will experience intermittent lane closures and traffic shifts through mid-November as crews conduct resurfacing, paving and maintenance work. Nighttime closures on Interstate 10, State Road 292, U.S. 90 and other major routes will run between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., with some projects extending through late 2026.

1 source

Fatal Crash Closes Gulf Breeze Parkway in Santa Rosa County

A collision at Gulf Breeze Parkway and Portside Drive in Midway left at least one person dead Sunday evening, prompting authorities to shut down westbound lanes and an eastbound turn lane. The Florida Highway Patrol did not specify when the road would reopen.

1 source

Coming up

All events
Wednesday, November 11, 4:00 PMPerformance or show

Duchess Live at 3rd Planet Brewing - Veterans Day

Come on out and celebrate our veterans with us on this rare mid-week show!! We 1000% support our military and veterans and we can't wait to rock out at one of our favorite breweri

1400 E John Sims Parkway, Niceville

Saturday, November 14, 7:00 AMFestival

Take A Kid Fishing Day

KIDS 12 and under fish free First 100 kids get a free rod to take home Equipment will be available for kids to use

Okaloosa Island Pier, 1030 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach