Twenty Mile Bend, Florida facts for kids
Twenty Mile Bend is a special spot in Palm Beach County, Florida, USA. It's not an official town or city, but it's well-known as a landmark. This place is where two main roads meet: State Road 80 and State Road 880.
What is Twenty Mile Bend?
Twenty Mile Bend gets its name because it's about 20 miles (around 32 kilometers) from two important places. It's 20 miles from West Palm Beach and also 20 miles from Lake Okeechobee. The name actually comes from a curve in State Road 880. If you drive east from Belle Glade, you'll find curves at 9 miles, 12 miles, and then the big one at 20 miles. That 20-mile curve is what people call Twenty Mile Bend.
Why is This Location Important?
Twenty Mile Bend is important because it acts like a dividing line. It's roughly halfway between the busy cities and towns in the eastern part of Palm Beach County and the quiet, farming areas to the west. The lands to the west are mostly used for agriculture and are often called "The Glades". This landmark helps people understand where the city life ends and the rural life begins.
How is it Used by Pilots?
This location isn't just for cars! Pilots also use Twenty Mile Bend as a guide. It helps them find their way when flying into Palm Beach International Airport. It's like a big sign on the ground that helps planes know where they are.