In 1957, Troop K of the Florida Highway Patrol began safeguarding the 110-mile stretch of what was known as the Sunshine State Parkway. Today, Troop K, also known as “Turnpike Troop”, is the official law enforcement partner for the entire Florida’s Turnpike system which is 450 miles long and includes Suncoast Parkway, Polk Parkway, and First Coast Expressway.
Headquartered inside the Turkey Lake Service Plaza complex at Mile Post 263, along with Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise, there are 181 sworn and 11 non-sworn members of Troop K. Troop K partners with Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise to develop programs that focus on a variety of safety campaigns including unlawful speed, aggressive driving, impaired driving, contraband interdiction, seat belt and child restraint, and move over law.