Duval Times

Sens. Rick Scott and Marco Rubio have recently addressed Assistant Secretary Michael Connor of the United States Army for Civil Works, urging for the allocation of funds to support essential projects in Florida. In a letter to the Army Corps of Engineers, the senators emphasized the significance of these projects for communities in Florida and across the nation.

The letter highlighted the importance of allocating significant funding for the construction of the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Reservoir as part of the South Florida Ecosystem Restoration (SFER) program. The senators expressed their expectation for the full consideration of proposed and ongoing projects in Florida, emphasizing their value to local communities and the nation.

Furthermore, the senators urged for a review of the USACE's interpretation of certain policies that have been hindering storm risk management projects in the state. They emphasized the need for new policy guidance to allow for the implementation of funds to restore hurricane risk reduction project footprints effectively.

The letter detailed a list of critical projects in Florida that the senators support, including shoreline protection projects, flood control studies, beach erosion control projects, ecosystem restoration studies, and wastewater infrastructure developments in various counties across the state.

Additionally, the senators advocated for the support and fulfillment of Continuing Authorities Program (CAP) projects that are crucial for local communities in Florida, ensuring the completion of water resources infrastructure projects. They also emphasized the importance of allocating necessary Operation and Maintenance funding for various projects across the state.

In conclusion, the senators expressed their appreciation for the efforts of the USACE in supporting water resources infrastructure projects in Florida. The letter underscored the vital role that the USACE plays in collaboration with non-federal interests to address the water resource needs of Floridians.

Sincerely, Sens. Rick Scott and Marco Rubio.