Key facts
- The downtown Sanford Welcome Center will be renamed the Linda Kuhn Welcome Center, honoring former Mayor Linda Kuhn for her years of service, leadership, and dedication to the Sanford community [1].
- Linda Kuhn served as Mayor of Sanford from 2005–2010 and moved to downtown Sanford in 1997, championing downtown revitalization, historic preservation, and economic development [1].
- The Linda Kuhn Welcome Center is located at 230 E. First St. in Sanford and will continue to serve as a hub for business, economic development, tourism, and community engagement [1].
- The building has historic significance, originally serving as the Sanford Post Office and later as the Sanford Library before being returned to the City of Sanford [1].
- A ribbon-cutting and recognition event is planned, with the date to be determined and more details to be shared once the event is scheduled [1].
The City of Sanford will honor former Mayor Linda Kuhn by renaming the downtown Sanford Welcome Center in her name. The Linda Kuhn Welcome Center recognizes Kuhn’s decades of service, leadership, and dedication to the Sanford community [1].
A Legacy of Downtown Leadership
Linda Kuhn moved to downtown Sanford in 1997 and became a champion of the city’s heart both before and after her tenure as mayor. She served as Mayor of Sanford from 2005–2010, during which she championed downtown revitalization, historic preservation, placemaking, economic development, and community vitality [1].
As Executive Director of Sanford Main Street, Mayor Kuhn helped bring new energy and activity to downtown, supported events that brought residents and visitors together, and worked with the City of Sanford and the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) on the successful redevelopment of First Street. She also helped create Sanford’s entertainment district, contributing to the continued growth and vibrancy of downtown [1].
Historic Building, Community Hub
The Linda Kuhn Welcome Center building itself is an important part of Sanford’s history. Originally the Sanford Post Office and later the Sanford Library, the building was returned to the City of Sanford following Mayor Kuhn’s successful efforts to lobby Seminole County Government for its return [1].
Over the years, the building has provided space for a number of community organizations, agencies, and public services, including [1]:
- Sanford Police Department substation
- City of Sanford Economic Development Office
- Sanford Main Street
- Seminole County Cultural Arts Council
- Celery Soup
- Sanford Welcome Center
- Greater Sanford Chamber of Commerce
- Sanford Historic Trust
Now, the Linda Kuhn Welcome Center will continue that tradition as a hub for business, economic development, tourism, community engagement, and downtown hospitality [1].
What to Know
- Location: 230 E. First St., Sanford, FL [1]
- Ribbon-cutting event: Date to be determined; more details will be shared once the event is scheduled [1]
Frequently asked questions
Who was Linda Kuhn and why is the Welcome Center being named after her?
Linda Kuhn moved to downtown Sanford in 1997 and championed the city’s downtown development both before and after serving as Mayor of Sanford from 2005–2010. She helped bring new energy to downtown through her work with Sanford Main Street, supported community events, worked on the redevelopment of First Street, and helped create Sanford’s entertainment district [1].
What is the history of the building that will become the Linda Kuhn Welcome Center?
The building originally served as the Sanford Post Office and later as the Sanford Library. It was returned to the City of Sanford following Mayor Kuhn’s successful efforts to lobby Seminole County Government for its return. Over the years, it has housed the Sanford Police Department substation, Economic Development Office, Sanford Main Street, and several community organizations [1].
Where is the Linda Kuhn Welcome Center located?
The Linda Kuhn Welcome Center is located at 230 E. First St. in Sanford, Florida [1].
When is the ribbon-cutting ceremony?
A ribbon-cutting and recognition event is being planned, with the date to be determined. More details will be shared once the event is scheduled [1].
Sources
- A New Name. A Lasting Legacy. Sanford Welcome Center To Receive New Name – Sanford Main – City of Sanford, 2026-09-30
Compiled by Central Florida Lifestyle from official sources. Last updated October 2, 2026.
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