Crews have reached the halfway mark on the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority's (FKAA) Islamorada Transmission Main Replacement Project approximately two-months ahead of schedule, according to a FKAA press release.
With 11,000 linear feet of the new 36-inch transmission main now installed between MM 80 and MM 82, crews are continuing to work northbound toward MM 84.
"I want to thank the top-notch crew we have working 24/7 Monday through Friday on this legacy project that will ensure access to clean drinking water for many years to come," said Greg Veliz, Executive Director of the FKAA. "Their continuous commitment to support the business community, residents, and visitors is such an integral part of the success of this project."
In April 2023, crews began installing the new, cathodically protected transmission main via open-cut trench installation along U.S. 1. Additionally, 900 feet of new transmission main has also been installed underwater at Tea Table Relief bridge crossing via horizontal directional drill (HDD), to protect it from high winds and storm surges. An additional main will also be installed via HDD at the Whale Harbor bridge crossing.
This project is being funded with $35 million in grants and $7 million through low-interest loans. To abide by the grant requirements, materials have been sourced from U.S.-based companies, including the American spiral-welded steel pipe from South Carolina and the iron and steel butterfly valves.
The Islamorada Transmission Main Replacement Project is slated for completion in February 2025, but traffic impacts are expected to lessen after March 2024.
