Everglades Foundation CEO Eric Eikenberg recently issued a statement as Governor Rick Scott commemorated the near completion of 2.5 miles of bridging that will allow increased flows of fresh water south under the Tamiami Trail into the southern Everglades and Florida Bay:
“Everglades restoration is a Federal-State partnership,” said Eikenberg. “For 30 years the removal of Tamiami Trail has been a restoration priority. By working together, the Florida Department of Transportation and the National Park Service are making this dream a reality.”
Eikenberg also noted that the sense of urgency the FDOT, the contractor, and the National Park Service brought to this and the next phase of the Tamiami Trail project is a model for Everglades restoration.
“By following this model of partnership and persistence, this generation will see Everglades restoration completed,” he added.
“We thank Governor Rick Scott, Superintendent Pedro Ramos, FDEP Secretary Noah Valenstein, Secretary Mike Dew, former Superintendent Dan Kimball, former DOT Secretary Ananth Prasad, and former DOI Everglades Restoration Director Shannon Estenoz for their foresight and leadership in completing this phase of the project in record time,” said Eikenberg.
“We urge the Trump Administration to continue this strong partnership by matching the state’s financial commitment to finishing Tamiami Trail, in addition to the state’s $200 million annual commitment to expedite the larger Everglades restoration program.”
About The Everglades Foundation
The Everglades Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to leading efforts to restore and protect the greater Everglades ecosystem. Since its founding in 1993 by a group of local outdoor enthusiasts, the Foundation has become a respected and important advocate for the sustainability of one of the world’s most unique ecosystems.
For information about The Everglades Foundation, visit EvergladesFoundation.org.
