The Appropriations Committee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development reported Senate Bill 274 favorably to designate a portion of International Drive in Orlando as Harris Rosen Way.

Senate Bill 274 would name the section of International Drive between State Road 528 and Sand Lake Road in Orange County as Harris Rosen Way and directs the Department of Transportation to erect suitable markers. Sponsor Senator Arrington described Rosen as a hotelier and philanthropist whose donations included a site for the Rosen College of Hospitality Management at the University of Central Florida and substantial gifts to cancer research after his son’s death.

Senator Arrington outlined Rosen’s business history and community contributions: he purchased a 256-room Quality Inn on International Drive in 1973, opened the Rosen Plaza in 1991, grew an empire to nearly 7,000 rooms and established the Harris Rosen Foundation, which has supported local preschool projects and scholarships. Arrington said Rosen donated $12 million to cancer research to create the Adam Michael Rosen neuro-oncology laboratories and related facilities.

Several senators praised the measure during debate. Senator Wright highlighted Rosen’s support for military members and veterans; Senator Smith called Rosen’s corporate leadership an example of "what corporate responsibility looks like." Senator Golia suggested considering future roadway namings for other local leaders, including the late Senator Geraldine Thompson.

There were no appearance forms in opposition and the committee recorded unanimous support in the roll-call vote. The committee chair recorded the bill as reported favorably and ended consideration.

The measure advances to the next committee stop for further consideration; the Department of Transportation will be directed by statute to install markers if the bill becomes law.